“A personalized learning approach in the classroom benefits both students and educators alike, providing tailored learning experiences for students to pursue their interests at their own pace, and allowing teachers to focus on guidance, support and longer-term planning.”

Each student in a teacher’s classroom is unique, with specific interests, strengths and needs. As teachers build relationships and understanding of students, they can begin to provide more personalized learning experiences. Frameworks such Universal Design for Learning (UDL) provide educators with flexibility and supports for all students. With customized learning plans, students are more engaged and show more progress to meeting learning targets.

Background

Key Design Considerations

• Include various furniture options that are easily adapted to student and instructional needs

• Provide direct access to adjacent, shared spaces to provide flexibility for the teacher and students

• Design learning spaces that offer large and small group options as well as individual “safe spaces”

• Consider the use of light and color in terms of the impact on students with environmental sensitivities

• Utilize sound absorbing materials to minimize acoustical distractions