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In the area of discrete trials ABA training for autistic students we have developed computer software to accomplish as much of this training as possible. The software teaches the following skills, among others: pointing to items; matching to sample forms, colors and shapes; matching letters and numerals; receptive vocabulary (hearing the name of an item and pointing to its picture); learning to work at the computer for sustained periods of time; imitating the spoken names of items; math facts; spelling and vocabulary; and phonics (hearing sounds and typing the letter or letter combinations which make the sounds).
One advantage of using computers is that thousands of correctly presented discrete trials can easily be given to the student every day, allowing the student to learn largely on his/her own. Another is that the learner advances to the next skill only when he/she has mastered the current skill at an adequate level of fluency (rates correct/incorrect).” |
The software
requires the parent (or teacher or aide) to come over to the student when
a notification screen comes up and a chime is sounded, both of which
indicate that the student has completed a certain number of discrete
trials correctly. The parent, teacher or aide then presses a key on the
keyboard that brings up a pictorial menu on the computer and at the same
time the computer asks the student what he/she wants. The parent or
teacher then requires that the student imitate or initiate (depending on
his/her progress) the appropriate word to request the item in question.
With a few students we also use and automatic reward-dispensing device
that is activated by the software at appropriate times. 