L19 - shaping & chaining

what is shaping?

differential reinforcements of successive approximations to a target behavior

fundamentals of shaping

• start by reinforcing behavior already in the person’s repertoire

• clearly define the terminal response

• change the reinforcement criterion in small increments

• reinforce movement not position

shaping

• free operant

• changes HOW the behavior is performed

task analysis

breaking complex behaviors into a sequence of component skills

examples of task analysis

handwashing, long division, parallel parking, writing a term paper

first step in task analysis

assess and teach prerequisite skills

second step in task analysis

list required materials

third step in task analysis

list task components in sequence

fourth step in task analysis

arrange or identify a terminal reinforcer

chaining

task analysis leads to the teaching of behavioral chains

behavioral chains

series of behaviors performed in sequence following an S^d and ending with reinforcement

the two functions that serve for completion in each behavior chain

1. Sd for completion of the next behavior

2. condition reinforcement for completion of the last behavior completed

backward chaining

add behaviors in reverse order starting with the last. prompt through all the steps except the last one

forward chaining

add behaviors in sequences starting with the first

total task

teach the entire chain at once

prompts

S^D that occasions the target behavior

kinds of prompts

• written/picture

• gesture

• vocal

• physical guidance

• model

most-to-least prompt fading

start with the most intensive/salient prompt to ensure correct response