The School Desk Has Been Reimagined For Personalized Learning

While education has changed over the years with the advent of new teaching methods and technologies, there’s one thing in the classroom that hasn’t budged: the humble school desk. In most classrooms, the desk still remains the same circular or rectangular table from decades prior.

As such, D2L, an online educator, wants to show how much the world of education has changed when it comes to learning by creating a one-of-a-kind demonstration of how the typical school desk can be reimagined in various forms—much like how learning works.

In collaboration with creative agency Zulu Alpha Kilo, the adaptable table works similarly to D2L’s platforms in the way syllabus and ways of learning can be personalized to each student’s needs. Acting as a metaphor, the desk, too, can be turned into various shapes and sizes for the best fit.

To create the ever-changing table, the agency tapped on the expertise of acclaimed industrial designer Miles Keller, who incorporated feedback from teachers and students into the design of what would be “the perfect desk.”

Using hinged panels made from Nordic wood, the unique structure can be moved about to form different shapes, accommodating students who prefer to read while laying back, those who prefer working in pairs, or others who might want a different setup each day.

“It’s a desk that’s different for every kid, because every kid is different. I’m hoping that with a little refinement, we might eventually see desks like this in classrooms around the world,” said Keller.

“D2L has always been guided by the simple idea that every learner is unique, and that their learning platform should be, too. With the right tools, we can help partner with educators to create meaningful learning moments for people throughout their learning journey,” explained John Baker, CEO of D2L.

[via Zulu Alpha Kilo, images courtesy]