COMMUNITY-BASED

INSTRUCTION
MARIA ELSA A. CASTAÑEDA
TEACHER 2, RESOURCE SPEAKER
 WHAT IS COMMUNITY BASED
INSTRUCTION?
(CBI) is a strategy or instructional method that promotes the
teaching and use of academic and functional skills in the
student’s natural environment. The setting, as well as the
tasks performed in these settings, should be relevant to the
student, facilitate independence and be age appropriate.
Instruction, materials and activities need to mirror age-
appropriate activities used by non-disabled same age peers
while being developmentally appropriate for the needs of the
student.
What is community based instruction? 

Community based instruction is exactly what is sounds like- instruction

for skills needed in the community that's taught in the
community.  More specifically, community based instruction is regular
and systematic instruction in meaningful, functional, age-
appropriate skills in integrated community settings, using
naturally occurring materials and situations. The goal is to provide
a variety of hands on learning opportunities to help students acquire the
skills they need to live in the world today.  
Why is community based instruction important?

Community-Based Instruction (CBI) is for

special education students who need instruction in functional
skills and life skills.

 CBI provides natural opportunities for students to practice

independent living skills. Concepts and skills from the
classroom are practiced in the natural environments.
Why is community based instruction important?

Community-Based Instruction facilitates the instruction and

mastery of skills within natural environments. The most
compelling reason to use CBI is that students are unable to
generalize learning and concepts across different environments
(people, places & things).

It provides an exciting opportunity for employees to mentor

students to enhance student learning, and share an
understanding of their industry, potential pathways and
opportunities, and skills necessary for their field. Partners are
able to directly contribute to shaping future leaders.
 1. No need to generalize. 

2. It provides exposure and access to the community locations that

we get to enjoy on a regular basis. 

3. Student motivation is increased during CBI.

4. It's research based.

5. Community based instruction increases awareness of the potential of

people with disabilities.
 an k
T h
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