What does a functional curriculum focus on?

A functional curriculum emphasizes the practical skills that individuals need to navigate daily life successfully. This approach is designed to equip learners with the competencies required to manage everyday tasks and responsibilities, thereby enhancing their independence and overall quality of life. For instance, a functional curriculum may include instruction in areas such as household management, personal finance, communication skills, and social interaction.

In contrast, focusing on theoretical concepts and abstract reasoning, standardized testing preparation, or memorization of facts does not align with the core objectives of a functional curriculum. These areas are more relevant to traditional academic settings or specific educational assessments, which do not necessarily address the practical needs and real-world applications that a functional curriculum aims to develop.