Question

In the Discrete Trial cycle, when should the prompt occur?

1) Before the target behavior
2) After the target behavior
3) During the target behavior
4) Prompting is not necessary in the Discrete Trial cycle

Answer 1

In Discrete Trial Training, a type of ABA therapy, the prompt should occur before the target behavior to guide the learner. Reinforcement then follows either a fixed-ratio or variable-ratio schedule based on the number of responses.

Step-by-step explanation:

In the framework of the Discrete Trial Training (DTT), which is a method used within Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), the prompt should occur before the target behavior. This ensures that the learner has the necessary guidance to perform the desired behavior correctly. After the prompt, the learner attempts the target behavior, and based on the attempt's accuracy, reinforcement is provided. Reinforcement follows a certain pattern - either delivered after a predictable number of responses, known as fixed-ratio scheduling, or after an unpredictable number of responses, known as variable-ratio scheduling. The role of the prompt is to increase the chances of the correct response, making it an essential part of the cycle.