Preparation for Adulthood: A Teacher Inquiry Study for Facilitating Life Skills in Secondary Education in the United States

Abstract

Life skills preparation for adulthood is a crucial, yet often overlooked concept in education. In schools across the United States, young adults graduate from high school with limited knowledge regarding how to navigate through the expectations of the real world. Although many educators feel teaching life skills in the classroom is necessary, the frustration of needing to adhere to state standards and lack of time often interferes with their implementation. This is unfortunate, as research indicates, “life skills education bridges the gap between basic functioning and capabilities. It strengthens the ability of an individual to meet the needs and demands of the present society, and helps in dealing with issues in a practical manner” (Prajapati, B. Sharma, & D. Sharma, 2017, p. 1). This action research study investigates ways two teachers implemented realistic life skill lessons, while adhering to district standards. Strategies investigated include: interest surveys, goal setting and social skills instruction.