Discrete

Trial

TeachingThe Application of an The Application of an ABAABA Strategy for Strategy for

Children with Autism & Children with Autism & Other DisabilitiesOther Disabilities

Paula R. Ulloa

ED657 Advanced Techniques: Multiple & Severe Disabilities

July 18, 2008

The Lovaas Method implements:

You should be able to…

• Demonstrate how to do a discrete trial

• Demonstrate the use of prompting strategies

• Demonstrate the use reinforcers

ABA UmbrellaABA Umbrella

• Simple and concise instructions

• 1x Rule• Avoid

instructions or cues to gain attending behaviors

Instruction

• 3-5 seconds & caveats

Response

Feedback• Immediate

• Positive Feedback

• Corrective Feedback

I R F!

AInstruction

BBehavior

CFeedback

3-5 secs 2-3 secs.

Prompts: No No Prompt vs. Errorless Learning

•Full Physical Prompt •Partial Physical Prompt•Gestural Prompt •Positional Prompt (proximity) •Within Stimulus Prompt (correct

option)-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

•Verbal Cues• Inadvertent Prompts

Arugh?

AInstruction

BBehavior

CFeedback

Prompt

3-5 secs 2-3 secs.

Improving the Quality of A Response Differential

Reinforcement(complete a reinforcer assessment)

A+ Correct

answer/good attention and

engaged

B Correct answer,

attention is off

C Incorrect answer

but good attention and really tried.

arrr..

AInstruction

BBehavior

CFeedback

DTT Process

Reinforcement?Prompt

3-5 secs 2-3 secs.

What just happened?

• DTT can be effective for any student that needs more structure

• Researched-based specifically as an intervention for autism

• Easy to learn & use

• Consistency among environments & personnel is key

Hmmm………..

• Is this the BEST method of intervention for individuals with autism?

• How does ABA:DTT affect socialization and development of social skills?

• How can we use ABA:DTT with other interventions for autism?

References

• Guam Public School System Division of Special Education Autism Program

• The Lovaas Institute www.lovaas.com

• Leaf, R. & McEachin, J. A Work In Progress. New York, NY:

DRL Books, Inc.