Glossary Term

Physical environment

Part of the human environment that includes purely material or tangible surroundings. A quality educational physical environment is one that supports multiple and diverse teaching and learning programs and pedagogies, including current technologies; one that demonstrates optimal, cost-effective building performance and operation over time; one that respects and is in harmony with the environment; and one that encourages social participation, providing a healthy, comfortable, safe, secure, and stimulating setting for its occupants.