What does the term "functional skills" refer to in special education?

The term "functional skills" in special education specifically refers to the abilities that enable an individual to perform tasks necessary for daily living and independence. These skills are critical for students with disabilities as they help them navigate their everyday environments, make choices, and participate actively in their communities. Functional skills include areas such as personal hygiene, time management, communication, and independent living tasks like cooking or managing finances. By focusing on these skills, educators aim to enhance the students' quality of life and autonomy, ensuring they can thrive in both home and community settings.

While academic skills and social relationships are important, they are not the primary focus of functional skills, which are grounded in practical application rather than theoretical knowledge or higher-level cognitive skills.