Community-based instruction is characterized by what type of settings?

Community-based instruction focuses on teaching students in settings that reflect real-world environments where they will live, work, and interact as part of their community. This type of instruction emphasizes learning activities outside of traditional classroom environments, allowing students to practice skills in the actual context in which they will use them.

Community settings provide opportunities for students to engage with peers, access resources, and familiarize themselves with community services, fostering independence and practical skill application. This approach is particularly beneficial for students with disabilities as it helps bridge the gap between academic skills and practical life skills.

While virtual classrooms, home environments, and highly controlled environments have their own merits for instruction, they do not typically offer the same degree of immediacy and real-world applicability that community-based settings provide. Community settings facilitate direct engagement and support the functional application of skills, making them essential for fostering meaningful learning experiences that prepare students for life beyond school.