Step 3.3 Use information from data
Use the data to modify, revise, or change the use of least-to-most prompting to enhance acquisition of the target skill or behavior.
Analysis of the data can help pinpoint problems in implementing the prompting procedure correctly or guide decisions about when the prompting procedure needs to be changed. Revisions or modifications to prompting might include:
- changing the type of controlling prompt needed,
- reducing the number of prompts within the hierarchy,
- changing the cue or response interval, and
- when to begin fading the prompts.
Based on the data and using the strategies on how to fade prompts that were discussed in the Step 1.11, remember to fade prompts in the hierarchy.
Common Problems and Solutions When Using Prompting
Problem |
Solution |
|
The toddler consistently makes errors at the final level in the hierarchy. |
Select a new, more controlling prompt |
|
The toddler consistently makes errors at an intermediate level. |
|
|
The toddler consistently waits for a prompt instead of attempting to respond at the independent level. |
Differentially reinforce prompted and unprompted correct responses or eliminate reinforcement for prompted correct responses |
|
The toddler consistently fails to respond at any level, including the final level. |
Find a more powerful reinforcer. |
EXAMPLE
The EI provider continues to monitor progress of the toddler asking for crackers. She reviews data collected over a period of one week.
The data in the chart reflects that the controlling prompt has shifted from physical to gestural, given that the toddler is responding correctly at that intermediate prompting level.
A decision would be made to reduce the number of levels in the prompt, now only 3 levels.