| Abstract [eng] |
The growing number of children with special needs is driving change in Europe's educational institutions. From 2024, all public education institutions in Lithuania would need to accept every child. But most educational institutions are not ready for this step. The current situation has led to a focus on specialised education centres, which are becoming more and more sought-after and needed. Theoretical research has shown that the educational centre for children with special needs is distinguished by its adaptability and ability to meet individual needs. The research also identified key design principles: universal, biophilic and sensory designs; Montessori components of the educational environment; colour therapy elements. These are the elements used in developing the design of the education centre. The empirical studies have identified the most appropriate location for the experimental education centre ─ Ž. E. Žilibero str. 13, Kaunas. The most relevant and necessary area of the educational centre was also identified ─ a specialised educational centre for children with multiple developmental disorders. Research shows that elements do not work in isolation, for example universal design has too few specific references or guidelines. However, using and combining different good practices can create an accessible and responsive environment for all children in the centre. The experimental project - an educational centre for children with multiple developmental disabilities - is based on a conceptual model using good practices: universal, biophilic, sensory designs; Montessori components of the educational environment; colour and animal therapies. The education centre is being designed in the Frieda's area ─ Ž. E. Žilibero str. 13, Kaunas, near the Vytautas Magnus University Botanical Garden. The site includes a complex of buildings: an education centre and an ancillary building (therapeutic home). The design of the education centre shows how good practice is used to create a space that responds to the individual needs of children with multiple developmental disabilities. |
