Final answer:
School gymnasiums commonly use gravity furnace systems that exploit natural convection to efficiently heat large spaces, similar to systems used in institutions like Colgate University.
Step-by-step explanation:
The common heating system for school gymnasiums is often one that utilizes a gravity furnace, which is a system that takes advantage of natural convection. This method involves air heated by the furnace expanding and rising, creating a convective loop that transfers energy throughout the space. As the warm air rises and spreads out across the ceiling, it cools down and becomes denser, eventually sinking back down to the floor to be heated once again. This circulation loop allows for an efficient and uniform heating of large spaces like gymnasiums. An example of the application of such heating systems can be seen in Colgate University, where their steam-generating wood-burning facility provides substantial heating to satisfy the campus's needs.