CRI Previews New Publications and Programs
Focus on Myths about Carpet and the
Ideal Learning Environments in Schools

Contact: CRI Communications Department, 706.428.2103

February 8, 2002, DALTON, GA -- The Carpet and Rug Institute (CRI) this week is unveiling two new publications that help parents, schools, and homeowners understand carpet and how it provides both fashion and appropriate functions in the home and the school.  The first publication clears up misperceptions about carpet and its role in indoor air quality; the second one is a collection of case studies of some of the best classrooms and learning environments nationwide.

Myths and Truths about Carpet

In the recent past, the media and consumers have heard and, perhaps repeated, incorrect information about carpet and its role in indoor air quality.  The brochure, Myths and Truths about Carpet, presents common misperceptions, the truth about each situation and provides references to scientific background materials, resource people who are experts in the field, or facts that substantiate the "truth."   An example is the incorrect assumption that new carpet contains formaldehyde.  No formaldehyde has been used in carpet production in over two decades.  The small brochure is available on CRI's web site or can be ordered from CRI.

The Ideal Learning Environment, Case Studies of Design Solutions for Schools

Last year's completion and promotion of the study of schools performed by Beth Shapiro and Associates of Atlanta generated much interest in the design and architecture fields.  Parents were also fascinated with learning about the physical elements that should appear in schools to provide the very best learning environment. 

School teachers nationwide were asked which design elements are most important for creating an ideal learning environment.  Safety, comfort, lighting, and acoustics topped the list.  The new CRI publication, The Ideal Learning Environment, Case Studies of Design Solutions for Schools, presents four schools in various parts of the country that contain all the ideal elements from the study:  Beverly Elementary, Allen, Texas, a new school in an affluent neighborhood contains wide carpeted halls, the newest of available technology and a pod for use by both the school and the community; Charles Young Elementary, Washington, D. C., a safe haven for inner city students where most students find a comfort and quietness that doesn't exist in the remainder of their lives; Mueller Charter Elementary, a completely renovated suburban school near San Diego that provided design elements and new technology to middle income and predominately Hispanic students; and Ridgeland High School, Fort Oglethorpe, Georgia, where parents helped to encourage the school to renovate and include design elements that encouraged both academics and music education.  Each school is different in its student base and its available expertise and funding.  But each school contains appealing colors, comfortable and flexible furnishings, good lighting, good acoustics and safe conditions.  Carpet is an element in each school, helping to make the space quieter and make it more comfortable for better learning.

For more information about the Ideal Learning Environment study in schools, visit the Ideal Learning Environment Study Facts-At-A-Glance.