Childs Consulting Associates, Inc.

Today, the nature of instruction is impacted substantially by computing technology, information access and retrieval, two-way interactive instructional television, satellite distribution of instructional resources, and enhanced individualized instruction through interactive work stations. We recognize the need for facilities which provide accommodations for a variety of learners, learning and training activities, and variable group sizes. Estimation of need and provision for flexible future adaptation to new needs is essential in the programming of the building structure.

We study, design, and develop teaching spaces of many types: media centers, academic libraries, classrooms, laboratories, theaters, and computing environments. Access to the various facilities through electronic communications is essential and requires careful planning of building facilities. The configuration of teaching spaces, the provision of electronic support networks, and the support of teaching technology is essential to the building design and modification efforts.

Currently, we are programming and specifying several large high school technology projects involving media centers, information systems, auditorium/theaters, lecture halls, gyms, pools, and classrooms. These projects include extensive information retrieval through data networks, digital switches, electronic information retrieval systems, voice information networks, and satellite reception facilities. Designs include fiber optics, optical disk technology, mini-micro and mainframe usage, and extensive two-way interactive television for distance education.

We believe all educational facilities must have structural and operational flexibility. Continuing changes in education have a great impact on instructional design, teaching, and facilities users' learning. A structurally sound information access facility that remains flexible for future growth and needed delivery changes will provide significant savings for the institution.

We coordinate our work closely with the institution, the architect, and other consultants. We supply the planning team with information on patterns of academic use of information technology. This information assists in the allocation of space usage, the ergonomics of technology usage by patrons, and the design of flexible use systems.