individualizare

Individualizare is a concept used across education, psychology, and sociology to describe the process of recognizing and accommodating the unique characteristics, needs, and trajectories of individuals within larger systems, rather than applying a uniform approach.

Origin and usage: The term derives from the root "individual" and the Romanian suffix "-izare," denoting the act or process of making something individual.

In education, individualizarea învățării means tailoring instruction to each learner's pace, prior knowledge, interests, and learning style. Practices include pre-assessment, flexible pacing, personalized learning plans, and ongoing formative assessment. It is distinct from differentiation, which adjusts tasks for groups while pursuing shared goals.

In psychology, the term relates to processes of becoming a distinct person, including identity formation and autonomous decision-making; in Jungian psychology, "individuation" is a related concept describing integration of the self.

In sociology, it refers to how individuals negotiate roles and norms within social structures, balancing conformity with personal agency. Digital tools, adaptive learning systems, and data-driven assessment support individualizare in education; in practice, successful implementation requires teacher preparation, curriculum flexibility, and supportive policy.

In sum, individualizare aims to recognize and cultivate each person's potential by aligning processes and expectations with individual differences.