Design Considerations for Construction of Rural Primary Schools.

Widely differing local conditions, increased community participation in education, more lifelong education, and decentralization of schools are factors which should affect the architecture of rural primary schools in Pakistan. Also significant are the results of a 1977 survey which indicate that building quality is unrelated to school attendance and that regardless of building availability most instruction occurs outside or in rustic sheds. These factors lead to a new basis of rural school building design which accomodates exterior spaces for school activities and reduces the use of inside closed space to storage or protection from inclement weather. A standardized one-room school building, modified for local climate, thermal conditions, building materials, and construction methods can provide adequate educational space for rural boys', girls', and coeducational schools. This lockable storage/office building, a shed structure, a boundary wall, and essential furnishings can be provided for approximately 1/8 the amount currently being expended for unused school buildings. The building should be sited so as to maximize available sunlight and prevailing winds. The detailed appendices use maps, charts, and architectural illustrations to present a climatic analysis of Pakistan, materials and structural requirements of different construction methods and designs, and architectural guidelines for various climates. (SB)