This paper comments on the controversy surrounding the use of gentle teaching and applied behavior analysis. Strengths of gentle teaching are noted, such as its wide focus and emphasis on mutual change between client and caregiver. Behavioral interpretations are offered for behavior change reported in the use of gentle teaching procedures. (JDD)

This commentary on the use of gentle teaching with individuals with developmental disabilities examines the method's assumptions, describes its use of behavioral techniques, and criticizes its ineffectiveness. (JDD)

The personalized system of instruction (PSI) is characterized by mastery, specified objectives, self-pacing, small-step sequenced materials, repeated testing, immediate feedback, credit for success rather than penalty for errors, proctors, and lectures for motivation. Research indicating the effectiveness of PSI is cited, and problems with…

This commentary on EC 605 189 discusses assumptions of gentle teaching, its use of supportive behavioral techniques, and criticisms of gentle teaching. The paper concludes that gentle teaching is distinct from applied behavior analysis (ABA) in its unconditional valuing and focus on mutual change and is congruent with ABA in use of several…

This paper argues that there is a science of pedagogy based on a science of behavior and that educational researchers have been remiss in ignoring the findings of behavior analysis. Implementation of the comprehensive application of behavior analysis to schooling (CABAS) is described as an effective approach for increasing student learning. (JDD)

This paper explores the controversy surrounding gentle teaching, with particular reference to the relationship between gentle teaching and applied behavior analysis. Advantages and disadvantages of this approach are discussed, and it is suggested that gentle teaching and applied behavior analysis need not be regarded as mutually exclusive…

Reasons for the failure to adopt behavior-analytic teaching strategies include the perception that behavior analysis is coercive and controlling, difficulties in implementation, university factors, and marketing problems. The goal of dissemination of these strategies could be met through creating motivational conditions and devising marketing…

This paper examines aspects of the traditional implementation of behavior analysis that are counterproductive to teacher use and identifies practices that promote greater teacher use, including entering the system and working with school personnel, developing classroomwide applications rather than single-student interventions, and sustaining…