Which activity can effectively promote social skills among students with disabilities?

Promoting social skills among students with disabilities is best achieved through structured peer interaction activities. These types of activities are specifically designed to provide students with the opportunity to engage with their peers in a supportive environment, fostering communication, teamwork, and relationships. Structured interaction allows educators to set clear objectives, guiding students on how to express themselves, listen actively, and collaborate effectively, all crucial elements of social skills development.

In contrast, independent homework assignments do not facilitate social interaction; they often reinforce solitary work habits. Teacher-led discussions without student input limit opportunities for students to practice their social skills and often lead to passive learning rather than active engagement with peers. While group tests with graded assessments may offer some opportunity for collaboration, the focus tends to be more on individual performance and evaluation rather than on nurturing interpersonal skills. Therefore, structured peer interaction activities are the most effective way to promote social skills among students with disabilities, offering both the setting and the support necessary for meaningful social engagement.