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Generalization & Maintenance of Skills Training Module #9 WCDSB, HDSB & Erinoakkids Megan Delcourt, M.A., Behaviour Analyst Maria DeBrouwer, CYCW

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Generalization The process of taking a skill learned in one setting (e.g. home) and applying it in other settings (e.g. daycare/school). It may also be used to define the process of taking one skill and applying it in a different way Fouse & Wheeler, 1997 e.g. zip coat up and zip up backpack WCDSB, HDSB & Erinoakkids

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Also known as.. Transferring skills and concepts Using a learnt skill in multiple environments WCDSB, HDSB & Erinoakkids

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How do we apply this in the classroom? Vary how you state your instructions (e.g. come sit, sit down, take a seat) Vary the materials you use (e.g. learning to do up buttons, large buttons on coats, small buttons on dress shirts) Ensure your child responds to a variety of people (e.g. teacher, daycare staff, librarian, and grandparent) Vary the setting (e.g., ordering his/her meals at McDonalds, Harveys and Swiss Chalet) Reinforce the behaviour/skill when your child demonstrates it in the natural environment WCDSB, HDSB & Erinoakkids

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Things to remember Exposure to varied settings Consistency between staff Data Collection Exposure to various stimuli Exposure to various people WCDSB, HDSB & Erinoakkids

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It is important to remember that just because a skill has been taught, it is important to ensure that the skill can be demonstrated across: WCDSB, HDSB & Erinoakkids Varied Environments Varied People Varied Stimuli

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Example You have a new student in your classroom. His mother has communicated to the principal that the student is toilet trained. When the student arrives at school you quickly learn that he is in fact not toilet trained and he has several accidents throughout the day despite being prompted to use the washroom WCDSB, HDSB & Erinoakkids

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Definition Maintenance is a term used when we probe or test a student periodically to ensure that a skill has actually been mastered In our own terms.. The students can demonstrate the skill successfully when asked periodically WCDSB, HDSB & Erinoakkids

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Maintenance How does this strategy work? Lets take a closer look: Step 1: A skill has been taught Step 2: The student is periodically asked to demonstrate the skill to ensure fluency and accuracy of the skill Step 3: Continue to keep the skill on maintenance OR reteach the skill if needed WCDSB, HDSB & Erinoakkids

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Things to consider - Retention Retention Definition - The act of retaining - The ability to recall or recognize what has been learned or experienced; memory Remember.we are not all wired the same way WCDSB, HDSB & Erinoakkids

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Some students may require longer periods of time to learn the steps for a new skill Some students may require various techniques such as modeling, shaping, prompting to help assist with the skill development Some students may acquire a skill but may regress due to not having retained the information

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Thank You! Look our for the Understanding Behaviour & Data Analysis Resource Guide This module has been brought to you be the Behaviour Support Team Strategic Plan 2015 WCDSB, HDSB & Erinoakkids