Debate for better classrooms is growing. These spaces, more often than not, border on 'permanent' status with use cycles up to 15 years or more. Research is showing that a student's ability to comprehend and compile knowledge is adversely affected by the environment one is taught in. Use cycle costs in terms of energy consumption and basic maintenance for overburdened temporary classrooms have developed into new economic constraints for operational budgets. Thus, the current model is in need of an [up]GRADE.

The principal consideration now becomes the student. How do we improve the current condition? What factors are the most important to the student? How can we create the optimal learning environment?

The students at Eastern Tech High School - a vocational magnet school in Baltimore, Maryland with ten career major programs - were asked these questions. They responded with a list of six principal 'design factors' for improving the learning environment.

_Flexibility/Operability.
_Natural Light.
_Air Quality.
_Materiality and Color.
_Personal Space with Group Learning.
_Indoor/Outdoor Relationships.

An ideal environment would be constructed in such a way that these design guidelines are easily accommodated. Thus, the activity of construction takes place considering the activity of learning - the two processes are entwined.

While various hinged or jacked systems were considered, they were ultimately rejected in favor of one that sponsors low cost, high quality construction, limited on-site work, and greater user control and flexibility. [up]GRADE utilizes MHS Building Systems technology - an extruded modular framing system with patented clamp-and-bolt connections integrated with structural insulated roof, floor and wall panels. Windows and sheathing systems can be secured within the grooves of the post and beam system, providing a stronger, more secure building envelope. The MHS 6061 aluminum system weighs 1/3rd that of the typical I-beam steel modular structures, and 1/12th that of concrete systems. Improved shipping weights can have a profound impact on fuel economy and shipping costs. The simple connections and limited on-site work this system provides maintains high construction quality as well as lower installation costs.

Costs are further offset by the adaptability of the system. An integrated intelligent floor system provides flexibility, power and data to all points in a classroom - offering complete freedom for personal configuration and group projects. Operable ventilators keep the class conditioned at even temperatures, taking advantage of cross breezes and air movement. Integrated wall components provide additional work surfaces, or fold away for increased floor space as needed. Expansive glass surfaces with optional Solatube skylights provide additional natural lighting, ultimately eliminating the need for daytime lighting operations. Chalkboard and grease board panels can be integrated into the structural frame for added flexibility.

Thus, the classroom becomes a flexible, energy efficient, naturally ventilated and well lit space - optimized for an improved learning experience.

Additional modules can be incorporated to sponsor curriculum with community outreach initiatives. These vocational curriculums can sponsor community oriented training and exchange programs so that the school can use these outreach centers as an economic engine that works to improve the surrounding community. Four Career Major programs were chosen to demonstrate the outreach initiative.

These outreach programs are an opportunity to connect Eastern Tech to its neighboring communities, while providing revenue streams for the school. But the outreach is also a teaching tool - students are learning invaluable communication techniques and networking. The education model develops from the flexibility of the space which is born from the construction means and methods.

Space + Learning + Outreach = [up]GRADE.

Materials in Base Classroom Module:

_MHS 6061 extruded aluminum frame system
_SIP wall panels (4” SIP wall with R-3/in polystyrene)
_Fiber cement rain screen panels
_FSC Certified wood cladding
_Recycled wood cladding
_Insulated roof panels (6” SIP roof with R-5/in polystyrene)
_Integrated floor panels (6” SIP PANELING WITH DATA AND ELECTRICAL )
_Glazing(Cardinal Double Low-E2 U+0.25, SHGC=0.37)
_Solatube Skylights
_Indirect lighting (0.65 W/SF)
_Continuous dimming photocell ballast
_Mini-split heat pump (16 SHEER/ 8.2HPFC/ DUAL SPEED COMPRESSOR)
_Mitsubishi© Integrated Lossney® heat recovery unit
_Ecosurfaces recycled tile
_Whiteboards
_Greaseboards
_Stackable or foldable desks and chairs

NOTE: The materials here are what’s represented in this presentation. However, the frame and panel system is designed to be flexible enough to support innumerable cladding, finishing , and furnishing options to meet the needs of each specific school.

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