PCS For Families: A Case Study in the Participatory Design of a Technology-Rich Elementary School Classroom

Abstract

Computers and network connectivity in the classroom raise new challenges in workspace design. Unlike corporate or dedicated laboratory facilities, a technology-rich classroom plays multiple roles throughout its working day. Classroom design demands flexible and robust construction, particularly when applied in an elementary school setting. Using the PCs for Families project as a case study, this paper discusses design issues of a technology-rich networked classroom from ergonomic design to system support.