Window Treatments
The vast majority of faculty prefer classrooms with windows. The benefits of
natural light have already been emphasized, and classrooms with windows,
with the exception of large lecture halls, are more attractive as a rule
than those without. Windows also add complexity in control of ambient light,
which is essential to permit viewing of visual aids and to prevent glare.
Mahnke's excellent book addresses the issues of windows and window coverings
in his Chapter 7. The Smarter College Classrooms web page (http://classrooms.com/guidlines.html
- orientation) provides some excellent points based on design experience.
If there are windows, they should be capable of being opened in the
spring and fall.
Sunlight shining into the room can wash out projection images, so window
coverings are imperative. Venetian blinds, room darkening shades and/or
drapes need to cover all windows to block light and assure that glare from
windows does not appear on computer screens, TV screen or projection
screen(s). Dimming and blackout capabilities are identified as continuing
concerns in college classrooms.
Each window should have two window coverings to provide a range of light control and the assurance that if one device malfunctions, the teacher still has an alternative. Blinds inside the window well prevent most direct sunlight and glare. Shades outside the window well, extending several inches past window edge, minimize light seepage around the edges.
Educational Design Principle No. 7: "Consider Home as a Template for School" is a guideline to bear in mind regarding window coverings, within practical limits of course. Ideally, much as in the home, light control should provide the options of clear viewing of the outdoors, ability to screen with subdued light through translucent or partial shading, and ability to darken the room with an opaque covering. ISU commonly uses an "institutional gray," Venetian-type blind, doubtless a choice made by cost and maintenance considerations. Such blinds, if well fitted, serve the purpose of light control well. When defective, damaged or fitted poorly, they don't serve their function at all, so good initial installation and prompt maintenance are essential to a room's suitability. The same color blind in every room is monotonous. Venetian blinds in accent colors would retain the practicality of the blind and improve mood and interest of the room immensely. In a few places, alternatives such as curtains, vertical blinds, or cellular shades should be considered.
