Personalize Context for Algebra Students

Excellent article that highlights recent research showing the value of personalizing context to help students struggling with algebra.  This study from Carnegie Mellon University, "Using Adaptive Learning Technologies to Personalize Instruction: The Impact of Interest-Based Scenarios on Performance in Algebra" is downloadable pdf in an embedded link.  There are several ideas explained that could help our Title I math teachers.
Several other studies have shown that math personalization results in increased achievement.  "Changing context" could be difficult or as simple as learning students' interests  to formulate relevant questions. 
What has worked for you, not just in algebra but in other math concepts?

Studies Find Payoff in 'Paersonalizing' Algebra. Sarah D. Sparks 9.26.12 Education Week - Premium article
http://www.edweek.org/ew/articles/2012/09/26/05personalize_ep.h32.html?tkn=VXCF9%2FGwGEwqob5w42Qm3zUqP9uCwwmsnyD8&cmp=clp-sb-ascd