title: Learner Preference Between Massed- and Alternating-Trial Sequencing when Teaching Stimulus Relations to Children with Autism.
abstract: Two children with autism were assessed for preference between intersession distribution of mastered and unknown instructional trials on a computerized matching-to-sample task consisting of 12 total learning opportunities. Choice responses yielded presentation of either massed-trial sequencing (six unknown/six mastered stimuli relations or vice-versa) or alternating-trial sequencing delivery (alternation of unknown and mastered stimuli relations) followed by reinforcement for correct responses. An extinction condition served as an experimental control. Both children demonstrated a preference for the alternating-trial sequencing condition, and implications for instructional programming and possible effects to delays to higher rates of reinforcement are discussed.
authors.affiliation: Beacon ABA Services, Inc, 321 Fortune Boulevard, Milford, MA 01757 USA.
authors.forename: Paulo
authors.identifier: 0000-0001-9601-7533
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Guilhardi
authors.affiliation: Beacon ABA Services, Inc, 321 Fortune Boulevard, Milford, MA 01757 USA.
authors.forename: Jennifer
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Smith
authors.affiliation: Beacon ABA Services, Inc, 321 Fortune Boulevard, Milford, MA 01757 USA.
authors.forename: Camille
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Rivera
authors.affiliation: Beacon ABA Services, Inc, 321 Fortune Boulevard, Milford, MA 01757 USA.
authors.forename: Robert K
authors.initials: RK
authors.lastname: Ross
keywords: Acquisition; Alternating trials; Choice; Massed trials; Matching-to-sample; Preference