Date/Time: November 5, 2026 | 11:00 am – 12:00 pm

Room: TAHOMA 5

Abstract: Join us for an engaging exploration of how classroom design impacts student experiences, supported by a user-centered problem-solving framework and a real-world case study. Grounded in lived experience and inclusive design, we will introduce the concept of Architecture as a Caregiver and explore how conventional design principles can be reimagined to create environments that actively support independence, dignity, wellbeing, and human flourishing for individuals of all abilities.

Building on this framework, we will examine Prairie View Elementary School in Spokane, Washington, where innovative design strategies, including the implementation of a sensory room, were used to create a more inclusive and supportive learning environment. Through this case study, attendees will learn how thoughtfully designed spaces can provide controlled sensory input, stress relief, and opportunities for self-regulation while helping students navigate challenges such as sensory overload and attention fatigue.

This discussion highlights the critical role of the built environment in shaping student success and offers practical insights for educators, designers, and school leaders seeking to create learning spaces that better support the diverse needs of today’s students. By connecting an abstract design framework to a real-world educational application, the session demonstrates how intentional design can foster more inclusive, effective, and empowering learning experiences. 

Learning Objectives:

1. Examine the challenges faced by students, such as sensory overload and attention span decline, and understand how classroom design can address these issues to improve student focus and learning outcomes.
2. Learn about innovative approaches to classroom design, including the implementation of sensory rooms, and how these spaces can provide controlled sensory input, stress relief, and opportunities for self-regulation.
3. Discover how aspects of classroom design such as acoustics, color, and layout can impact student learning and behavioral outcomes.
4. Gain practical insights into creating inclusive and supportive learning environments that cater to diverse sensory needs, enhancing student engagement and academic performance.