How to design a powerful learning environment so that learners can thrive in the 21st century? OECD's Innovative Learning Environments (ILE) is an ambitious international study that responds to this challenging question. This companion volume to "The Nature of Learning: Using Research to Inspire Practice" is based on 40 in-depth case studies of powerful 21st century learning environments that have taken the innovation journey. Innovative Learning Environments presents a wealth of international material and features a new framework for understanding these learning environments, organised into eight chapters. Richly illustrated by the many local examples, it argues that a contemporary learning environment should: (1) Innovate the elements and dynamics of its "pedagogical core"; (2) Become a "formative organisation" through strong design strategies with corresponding learning leadership, evaluation and feedback; (3) Open up to partnerships to grow social and professional capital, and to sustain renewal and dynamism; (4) Promote 21st century effectiveness through the application of the ILE learning principles. In conclusion it offers pointers to how this can be achieved, including the role of technology, networking, and changing organisational cultures. This report will prove to be an invaluable resource for all those interested in schooling. It will be of particular interest to teachers, education leaders, parents, teacher educators, advisors and decision-makers, as well as the research community.