A classroom tailored to students with chronic medical conditions. A systematic review

Childhood chronic medical condition increases the risk of school dropout due to frequent hospitalizations, leading to emotional and physical challenges in attending school. Students with chronic conditions may face bullying, particularly when their medical condition is visible, and classroom environments are often not adapted to their needs. This is particularly relevant for students with mobility, sensory, respiratory, or neurological impairments. Schools must create environments that support hospitalized students, even during absences, and accommodate chronic medical conditions requiring continuous care. This study explores how to design inclusive classroom environments suited to the needs of students with medical conditions, focusing on both physical spaces and organizational aspects. A systematic review was conducted to investigate how classroom environments should be structured for children with chronic medical conditions to ensure inclusivity and promote their participation in both academic and recreational activities. No empirical studies specifically address classroom design to support students with chronic medical issues. While some research focuses on digital tools or hybrid learning, it does not consider post-hospitalization classroom modifications. Drawing on disability studies, this review suggests that classrooms should be equipped with technology, internet access, appropriate lighting, and comfortable, adaptable spaces. Further research will examine the specific needs of chronically ill students, guiding classroom modifications to improve students' sense of school belonging, well-being, and health-related quality of life through a mixed-methods approach.