Discrete Trial Instruction/Discrete Trial Teaching
patterns (monotone voice or scripted conversation), and social behaviors (one track conversation). To varying extents, this may be a prominent characteristic that people observe about them. A goal of behavioral intervention is to constantly expand the skill repertoires of people with autism. Most importantly, anyone who knows someone with autism can tell you that he or she is creative in many different ways! MYTH As long as you have a curriculum, anyone can effectively conduct DTI. FACT A comprehensive curriculum is certainly an essential component of a child’s education. However, it is not enough to ensure a successful academic experience. You need a great teacher to be a great student. Everyone knows the value of a good teacher who can make the material come “alive.” Teachers who use an ABA approach are always looking for ways to maximize the student’s progress by analyzing the student’s performance and the elements in the teaching situation (the teacher’s behavior, other students’ behavior, the setting, the materials used, etc.). It is this analysis of the teaching process that is most likely to result in the most beneficial outcome for the student. The analysis tells the teacher important information so that he/she can continue effective practices and discontinue ineffective practices on an ongoing basis.
child may behave in specific ways because those behaviors have been reinforced. However, this only represents an early phase of instruction necessary for some learners. It always is a priority to naturalize both instruction and the child’s behavior. Yes, it is true that individuals with autism exhibit repetitive behaviors in the form of motor mannerisms (hand flapping), object manipulations (lining up toy cars), language
Resources
Leaf, R., McEachin, J., & Harsh, J. D. (Eds.). (1999). A work in progress: Behavior management strategies & a curriculum for intensive behavioral treatment of autism. New York, NY: DRL Books. Lovaas, O. I. (2002). Teaching individuals with developmental delays: Basic intervention techniques. Austin, TX: PRO-ED.
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ABA Principles & Methods
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