Lecture Notes: Discrete Trial Training (DTT)

Introduction

• Discrete Trial Training (DTT): A structured teaching method to instill new behaviors and skills.
• Purpose: Teach adaptive skills like asking for help, brushing teeth, dressing, etc.
• Interchangeable Terms: Behavior and skill are used interchangeably.

Perceptions of DTT

• Controversy: DTT has mixed perceptions; some kids dislike it, while others enjoy it.
• Learner Preferences: It's crucial to cater to children's preferences, as they learn better and faster this way.
• Misconceptions: Concerns about DTT not being trauma-informed or neuro-affirming are based on misconceptions. Adherence to learner preferences ensures it is.

What is Discrete Trial Training?

• Structure: DTT is about breaking skills into small teachable steps.
• Components of a Trial:
  • Prompt: Instruction to initiate the desired response.
  • Target Behavior: Desired response from the learner.
  • Consequence: Immediate feedback, whether corrective or reinforcing.

Benefits of DTT

• High Opportunities to Respond (OTR): DTT involves frequent chances for the learner to respond, which enhances learning.
• Universal Learning Method: Almost all learners benefit from OTR.
• Rapid Learning Increases: Frequent trials lead to faster learning.

Error Correction in DTT

• Procedure: Incorrect responses are followed by a new trial with prompt to ensure correctness.
• Types of Prompts: Verbal, physical, gestural, or visual prompts guide the learner.
• Importance of Correcting Errors: Ensures retention of correct responses.

DTT Implementation

• Steps in DTT:
  1. Identify the skill to teach.
  2. Develop the trial with clear prompts, responses, and reinforcements.
  3. Conduct the trial and provide immediate feedback.
  4. Keep data and move to the next trial.
• Data Sheets: Record trials, responses, and prompts used.

Challenges with DTT

• Engagement: Not all learners engage well with DTT settings, especially structured ones.
• Fatigue: Learners may tire from repeated trials; breaks are necessary.
• Skill Generalization: DTT might limit spontaneous communication or generalization of skills.

Mastery in DTT

• Criteria for Mastery: Often set by organization, typically requiring high accuracy across multiple trials and settings.
• Maintenance: Even post-mastery, intermittent checks are necessary to ensure skill retention.

Conclusion

• DTT Use: Useful for teaching basic skills, but should be balanced with other methods to avoid rote learning without generalization.
• Next Steps: Continue to explore and refine teaching methods based on learner feedback and effectiveness.