Christopher R. Bugaj, MA CCC‐SLP is the Assistive Technology Specialist for Loudoun County Public Schools. Chris co-hosts the Talking With Tech podcast and hosted The A.T.TIPSCAST; a multi‐award winning podcast. Chris is the author of the first and second editions of The New Assistive Tech: Make Learning Awesome For All, the co-author of Inclusive Learning 365: EdTech Strategies for Every Day of the Year and The Practical (and Fun) Guide to Assistive Technology in Public Schools. Chris co-authored two chapters in the book Technology Tools for Students with Autism. Chris has presented over 650 sessions including TEDx.
The design of the physical space in which learning takes place can foster inclusive practices. Educators can engineer the environment with flexibility in mind using a set of guidelines. These principles include having work surfaces at different heights and angles, furniture that is moveable and adjustable, seating at different heights and made from a variety of materials, multiple sources of natural or soft light, and more. Participants will learn how to leverage research and resources from special educators, such as occupational therapists, to design models from which educators can choose to help provide equitable opportunities to structure flexible learning spaces. Flexibly designed spaces meet the needs of all students, including those with disabilities.
Level: Introductory
Audience: Any educator interested in redesigning the educational experience in a way that supports inclusion.
The session will be recorded and available on myinfinitec.org.
1. Identify key principles of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) that can be applied to physical space design to foster inclusive practices.
2. Create a list of professionals with specific skills sets to formulate a task force to guide the design of flexible learning environments.
3. Implement practical adjustments to physical spaces, such as varied work surfaces and adjustable furniture, to create equitable learning opportunities for all students.
Registration may be cancelled up to 14 days prior to the event for a full refund. Cancellations received within 14 days of the event will not be refunded. No-show registrations will also not be refunded.