C8 — Generalization & C9 — Maintenance vs Acquisition

Generalization

A skill learned in one context being performed in other untrained contexts.

Stimulus Generalization

The same response occurs to new or different stimuli.

Response Generalization

Different but functionally similar responses occur to achieve the same outcome.

Generalization Across Settings

A skill transfers to new locations such as home

Generalization Across People

A skill transfers to new instructors

Programming Common Stimuli

Using stimuli during teaching that will also appear in the natural environment.

Train Loosely

Varying instructions

Indiscriminable Contingencies

Reinforcement that is not predictable

Acquisition

Teaching new skills the learner has not yet mastered.

Maintenance

Keeping previously mastered skills strong over time.

Dense Reinforcement

Frequent reinforcement used during acquisition.

Thin Reinforcement

Less frequent reinforcement used during maintenance.

Mastery Criterion

The performance level that shows a skill has moved from acquisition to maintenance.

Maintenance Probe

A brief check to ensure a mastered skill is still strong.