Evidence-Based Practices
Evidence-based Practices (EBP)
An evidence-based practice is an instructional/intervention procedure or set of procedures for which researchers have provided an acceptable level of research that shows the practice produces positive outcomes for children, youth, and or adults with ASD.
Discrete Trial Training (DTT):
DTT is a structured teaching method that breaks down skills into small, “discrete” components. It involves repeated trials where a clear antecedent, behavior, and consequence sequence is used to shape desired behaviors.
Task Analysis and Chaining
Task analysis breaks down complex behaviors into smaller, teachable steps. Chaining is used to teach each step in sequence, reinforcing each step and building up to the complete skill.
Positive Reinforcement:
Positive reinforcement involves adding a favorable stimulus after a behavior, increasing the likelihood of that behavior occurring again. It’s one of the core techniques in ABA to encourage desired behaviors.
Natural Environment Training (NET):
NET uses the learner's natural environment and interests to teach skills in a more generalizable way. Teaching takes place during everyday activities, making it easier for learners to transfer skills to other settings.
Differential Reinforcement:
This strategy involves reinforcing specific behaviors while withholding reinforcement for others. Examples include Differential Reinforcement of Alternative Behaviors (DRA) or Differential Reinforcement of Other Behaviors (DRO), which help reduce challenging behaviors.
Prompting and Prompt Fading
Prompts are cues or assistance given to encourage correct responses. Prompt fading gradually reduces assistance, helping learners achieve independence. Types of prompts include verbal, visual, gestural, and physical.
Social Skills Training:
ABA-based social skills training focuses on teaching communication, play, and social interaction skills, often using modeling, role-playing, and reinforcement to promote appropriate social behaviors.