Architects who design schools face many challenges. The school design must provide safety, facilitate learning, accommodate new technologies, and incorporate ever-changing theories about how students learn. For important concepts, construction advice, photographs, and plans, explore these books on school design.
1. Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design
Not just about school design, this practical guide discusses ways to minimize crime in a variety of settings, including playgrounds. The general concepts from this guide are proving helpful for architects who seek to design secure schools. Written by Timothy Crowe, NCPI.
2. ASCD Yearbook : Preparing Our Schools for the 21st Century
The ASCD (Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development)Yearbook looks ahead to the new century, exploring all aspects of education, from curriculum to diversity to uses of technology. The authors --practitioners, researchers, and policymakers -- present a wide range of viewpoints and offer practical solutions. Thomas R. Guskey, editor.3. Educational Facilities
Author Jeffrey A. Lackney examines the impact and role of the physical environment of the school on teaching, learning, and educational outcomes.4. Architecture Of Schools: The New Learning Environment
Mark Dudek of the University of Sheffield examines both the practical requirements for school design and the subtle psychological needs of students. Twenty case studies illustrate the connection between architectural design and educational theories.5. Building Type Basics for Elementary and Secondary Schools
This 368-page construction manual is pricey, but it's an essential reference for school architects. Authors Bradford Perkins and Stephen Kliment have included project photographs, diagrams, floor plans, sections, and details.6. Effective Strategies for School Security
Written by Peter D. Blauvelt of the National Association of Secondary School Principals, this inexpensive 68-page paperback offers suggestions for improving school security, including some advice on building design.7. Educational Environments
Architect Roger Yee describes creative and innovative trends in school design, including elementary schools, secondary schools, colleges, universities, and libraries. Schools designed by leading architectural firms are illustrated.