Student-centered learning requires changing the way instructional time is used and the environments in which learning is experienced. Opportunities to better utilize in-school and out-of-school time to align with individual learner needs, pace, interests, and preferences intersect with pedagogical and instructional approaches (e.g., competency-based learning, blended learning) to make learning more personalized and learning opportunities more accessible.

This transition is made possible through innovative uses of technology for

• assessing student learning;
• facilitating instruction;
• engaging students in content;
• disseminating information and resources;
• providing timely and coherent student feedback;
• partnering with families and stakeholders;
• providing the necessary infrastructure to foster collaboration; and
• encouraging flexible, anytime, anywhere learning opportunities.

Throughout these instructional considerations, the learning space—where learning actually takes place—must be considered. Learning science research continues to affirm the effect that space has on a child’s learning experience.

Just as academic skill and learning transcends classroom walls, so do social, emotional, and behavioral skills, mindsets, and well-being. To emphasize the acquisition and maturation of these skills, educators should be explicit in their vocabulary and regularly verbalize and model the authentic use of skills. Taking time to focus on interactions, relationships, and self-talk creates conducive conditions for overcoming academic and social challenges. Specific attention should be paid to students who come from homes that don’t fit in with the traditional school structure.

Learning environments—including classrooms, common areas, offices, and extracurricular spaces—should reflect a climate and culture of safety, inclusivity, dignity, and support. These areas should represent and celebrate diverse perspectives, achievements, and opportunities, and remain gender neutral and/or gender inclusive. Similarly, there should be positive and proactive language in signage, printed materials, and the school’s online presence.

Learning space design isn’t the only way to personalize student experience; reconfiguring schedules can increase student productivity, amplify student agency, and improve overall well-being. The acclaimed researcher Daniel Pink has cited recent neuroscience findings to support school-day scheduling based on age and development. Pink shares for example how, High school campuses should start no earlier than 8:30 a.m., while elementary schools should schedule analytical lessons in the morning and brainstorming and creative outlets in the afternoon. These findings also have been backed by the American Academy of Pediatrics. As seen throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, allowing students to use time in an asynchronous fashion, can also provide the needed flexibility to better support an individual’s health and well-being.