Although the very nature of personalized learning demands a departure from one-size-fits-all education and allows for myriad models and practices for its implementation, several key characteristics emerge:

• Instruction is customized to individual learning styles and preferences and builds on learner strengths
• Learning can take place anytime, everywhere utilizing a wide variety of delivery methods
• Curriculum is dynamic, individually paced and acknowledges learner interests
• Standards are rigorous, comprehensive and relevant; they provide a consistent, clear understanding of what students are expected to learn, but do not dictate when or how students learn
• Students are authentically engaged in their education experience; they co-create their own customized learning path
• Teachers assume new roles (e.g. learning coordinators, facilitators and assessors) both individually and as part of instructional teams
• Assessment is varied, relevant, and utilizes sophisticated systems to track, illustrate, and translate student performance data; it incorporates innovative practices such as performance-based ePortfolios and embedded formative assessments that produce immediate results
• Feedback occurs in rapid cycles and is objective, connected to learning goals, and suggests the next step in the learning process

Personalized learning will continue to evolve and grow. Implementation of various models will have many policy and operational ramifications and requirements. Careful planning, sophisticated tools, integrated systems, and educator support are required to meet this bold approach to learning. As an educational platform, personalized learning promises to address our nation’s educational challenges and goals by better engaging students and providing them with opportunities to achieve at higher levels.