Based on the principles of applied behavior analysis (ABA), discrete trial training (DTT) is used to develop a new response to a stimulus. DTT is based upon the principle of breaking down behavior into discrete steps called a "single teaching unit" or learning trials. Trials are repeated several times with the learner receiving…

The most researched and effective practice for instructing children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is applied behavior analysis (ABA; Baer, Wolf, & Risley, 1968; Reichow, 2012; Smith & Eikeseth, 2011; Virués-Ortega, 2010). ABA is a scientific approach to systematic instruction, data collection, and data analysis based on observable…

The steps involved in teaching multiple discrimination to disabled students are listed for ecological, performance, functional, and stimulus analyses. Additional considerations, including stimulus modification and design of the instructional sequence (successive or cumulative approaches), are reviewed. (CL)

The paper describes procedures for transferring stimulus control. Four response-prompting and two stimulus manipulation procedures are discussed. The response-prompting procedures are most-to-least prompts, graduated guidance, system of last prompts, and time delay. The stimulus manipulation procedures are stimulus shaping and stimulus fading.…

This article on the use of applied behavior analysis with students who have autism focuses on selected recently developed stimulus control techniques. These include new methods for teaching conditional discrimination (matching) skills, stimulus equivalence procedures, prompt and prompt-fading techniques, and incidental teaching procedures.…

Notes the difference between "properly" stimulated and "expensively stimulated" or "over" stimulated when it comes to providing an environment for infant brain development. Highlights the effectiveness of just talking to a child. Suggests that more important than a particular toy is that parents be attuned to the kind…

Discusses competencies necessary for structuring teaching-learning environments (data, stimuli, and strategies) in objective-referenced or criterion-referenced instruction. Teaching competencies (behaviors) listed are pointed toward music instruction, but are applicable for all subject areas. (Author/AH)

This article offers theoretical principles and practical suggestions for teaching physical education to children with autism. It focuses on stimulus overselectivity in the autistic child, the problems it creates for prompting and generalization, and its implications for teaching physical education to this population. (DB)

This paper discusses guidelines for devising a hierarchy when fading response prompts in training individuals with developmental disabilities. Existing guidelines are seen as poorly defined, inconsistent, and lacking both theoretical and experimental support. An alternative theoretical account is proposed which suggests that prompts in a hierarchy…

This paper reviews research on disturbances of children with developmental delays and handicaps in responding to complex stimuli, suggesting that such disturbances may deleteriously influence behavioral/neurophysiological development. Intervention programs for teaching children with autism a generalized set to use in responding to complex…

The recommended treatment approach for aphasia involves increasing the efficiency of language processing by manipulating the patient's processing of stimuli. Discussed are assessment, identification of the point of processing breakdown, identification of facilitory stimulus parameters, and treatment through stimulus manipulation. Two case studies…

This paper summarizes research in modern cognitive theory that relates to the role of computer drill and practice programs in learning and describes a prototype program that exemplifies recommended characteristics. Focus is on four major issues that are relevant to the design and optimization of computer drills: interference, spaced practice,…

The third in a series of literature reviews, this monograph presents three articles on skill generalization among individuals with severe disabilities. Kathleen A. Liberty analyzes the results of 15 studies to determine how teaching self-control affected students' performance in training and generalization, "Behavior-Control of Stimulus…

Presents a model to help physical education teachers keep students motivated and avoid off-task behavior by providing positive and purposeful practice sessions. The article points out learning barriers, notes the importance of providing motivation to perform tasks, and discusses motivational factors for specific physical education classes. (SM)

The materials, methods, and mechanisms that underlie the learning and performance of motor skills are explored. This booklet focuses on concepts which can be used to enhance student learning and performance in physical education. The chapters consider such questions as, "What types of skills will I learn?", "Should I practice different skills in…