Evaluation of Interactive Computerized Training to Teach Paraprofessionals to Implement Errorless Discrete Trial Instruction

• Main Authors: Contreras, B.P (Author), Gerencser, K.R (Author), Gunn, S.L (Author), Higbee, T.S (Author), Pellegrino, A.J (Author)
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Springer New York LLC 2018
• Subjects: adult; article; Computer training; Discrete trial instruction; feasibility study; female; human; human experiment; Interactive computerized training; learning; male; Paraprofessionals; staff training; Staff training; student
• Online Access: View Fulltext in Publisher

 Efficient and effective training strategies for paraprofessionals in special education settings face many challenges. Interactive computerized training (ICT)—a self-paced program that incorporates audio narration, video models, interactive activities, and competency checks—is one potential solution. ICT has been successful in training college students and special education teachers to implement discrete trial instruction (DTI), but its effectiveness to train paraprofessionals is unknown. Using a multiple-baseline design, we evaluated the feasibility of ICT, to train six paraprofessionals to implement DTI with an errorless learning procedure. Following ICT, the fidelity of implementation of DTI increased for all participants when implemented with a student in their classroom; however, competency varied. We added additional training components that progressed from low to more intensive feedback delivered remotely in attempt to increase fidelity to 90% or higher implementation. We also evaluated generalization to novel instructional programs and maintenance of instruction in the absence of feedback. © 2018, Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature.