Specify acoustic, durable finishes and mandatory carpeting in quiet and severe-disorder spaces¶

Strategy · All strategies
Evidence · no claims cited

Description¶

The common-facilities section gives implementable material specifications, treating acoustics and maintenance as the major considerations when choosing finishes. It states that "Carpeting is considered mandatory in quiet rooms, in consultation rooms, and in teaching areas for severely disturbed children", recommends specific wall coverings, acoustic ceilings, non-glare chalkboards with a metallic magnetic panel, blackout drapes for projection, intercommunication systems, and ample exhaust fans for interior washrooms, quiet rooms, and consultation rooms.

Design Implications¶

Context¶

Requirements¶

• Enough electrical outlets for projectors, record players, televisions, radios, and teaching machines
• Intercommunication systems and telephone connections in special classrooms

Constraints¶

• Lighting and ventilation must conform to the National Building Code; ceiling heights match conventional classrooms

Target Learners¶

• emotionally disturbed children in specially designed classrooms

Target Learning Goals¶

• an acoustic and visual environment that supports teaching and behaviour control

Related Strategies¶

• Optimize Classroom Acoustics

Examples¶

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Key Sources¶

• Special Education Facilities for Emotionally Disturbed Children. (1968). Ontario Department of Education. https://eric.ed.gov/?id=ED085907