Navigating 2 Assessments in Special Education: AFLS vs. ABLLS-R

Introduction

Selecting the right assessments in special education is paramount to understanding and fostering the growth of students with unique learning needs. Two widely used assessments, the Assessment of Functional Living Skills (AFLS) and the Assessment of Basic Language and Learning Skills – Revised (ABLLS-R), stand out as comprehensive tools designed to evaluate different facets of a student’s abilities.

In this blog post, we’ll discuss the key features of a few assessments in special education so that teachers make informed decisions about which tool aligns best with their students’ needs and the desired learning outcomes.

Understanding AFLS

The AFLS is a functional skills assessments in special education that focuses on evaluating an individual’s ability to perform essential activities of daily living. It encompasses six domains: Basic Living Skills, Home Skills, Community Participation Skills, School Skills, Vocational Skills, and Independent Living Skills. AFLS is rooted in the philosophy of promoting independence by targeting practical skills necessary for navigating real-world situations.

Exploring ABLLS-R

In contrast, the ABLLS-R is designed to assess a broad range of language and learning skills in individuals with developmental delays or disabilities. It comprises 25 skill areas, including areas such as Language, Social Skills, Self-Help, and Motor Skills. ABLLS-R is particularly valuable for assessing and addressing language and communication deficits, providing a roadmap for intervention and support.

Shop the Assessments

Comparing Key Features of Assessments in Special Education:

1. Scope of Assessments in Special Education:
   • AFLS: Primarily focuses on functional living skills, emphasizing real-world applicability.
   • ABLLS-R: Has a broader scope, encompassing language, communication, social, and motor skills.
2. Domains and Skill Areas:
   • AFLS: Organized into six domains, each addressing specific life skills relevant to different contexts.
   • ABLLS-R: Comprises 25 skill areas, offering a more detailed breakdown of language and learning skills.
3. Applicability:
   • AFLS: Particularly suited for assessing practical skills needed for independence and daily living.
   • ABLLS-R: More applicable for evaluating language and learning skills, providing insights into educational needs.

Choosing the Right Assessments in Special Education

1. Consider the Student’s Needs:
   • If the primary goal is to assess and enhance functional living skills, AFLS may be the preferred choice.
   • If the focus is on language and communication development, ABLLS-R provides a more comprehensive framework.
2. Align with Educational Objectives:
   • AFLS aligns well with goals related to daily living, vocational readiness, and community participation.
   • ABLLS-R is better suited for educators working on language development, social interaction, and academic readiness.
3. Collaborative Approach:
   • Teachers may choose to use both assessments collaboratively, leveraging the strengths of each to create a holistic understanding of the student’s abilities.

Conclusion

The choice between assessments in special education like the AFLS and ABLLS-R hinges on the specific needs and goals of the student and the educational context. Special education teachers should carefully consider the domains and skill areas relevant to their students and choose the assessment that aligns with the desired outcomes. In some cases, a collaborative approach, using elements of both assessments, may offer a well-rounded understanding of a student’s strengths and areas for growth. Ultimately, the goal is to select the assessments in special education that best support the unique learning journey of each student in the special education setting.

Assessment Resources:

• Life Skills Assessments in Special Education
• Why Baseline Assessments in Special Education
• ABA Assessments in Special Education Options
• 10 Tools You Need for Assessments in Special Education