Landmark College Pilot Program to Advance Neuroinclusivity in the Classroom

Leading into the fall semester, the Landmark College facilities team has installed new classroom furniture as part of a pilot program with KI Furniture, a national leader in providing accessible and neuroinclusive institutional furniture. 

Vice President of Academic Affairs Karrie Kalich, who spearheaded the initiative, said that the new furniture "provides flexible seating options and creates a tiered classroom experience, even in flat-floor rooms." This flexible seating approach "invites neurodivergent learners to select the seating that best supports their learning," said Kalich, and that a broader slate of seating offerings can "reduce anxiety, improve focus, and encourage active participation." 

The new furniture and classroom layout is being piloted in two learning spaces in Lewis Academic Building this semester. Feedback from those studying and teaching in the classroom will be collected throughout the semester, Kalich said, and that "those insights will guide future classroom and campus-wide furniture decisions, ensuring that our learning environments continue to reflect Landmark’s student-centered and inclusive approach to education."

This project is the latest advancement for neuroinclusive design at Landmark, including the launch of the Upper Campus Commons project and a recent partnership with Chartwell's Higher Education to advance neuroinclusive dining options on college campuses nationwide. 

Those interested in learning more about KI Furniture and their design philosophy can do so on their website.