Prompting

Amy M. Peters M.Ed., CCC-SLP, BCBA

What is a prompt?
A prompt is extra information that helps a learner make a correct response
Prompts are faded

Prompting is used when the learner is not obtaining a desired skill independently Using prompts increases errorless learning

3 Keys to success
Add as little as possible to help the learner succeed Remove (fade) the prompts as soon as possible

Consider that certain types of prompts are easier to fade

Who requires prompting?

At some point, all learners will need some form of prompting Careful prompting is most important with moderate severe or profound disabilities

Types of Prompts
Verbal Modeling Manual Gestural Textual Spatial

Verbal Prompting
Spoken cues that instruct a learner to perform a certain activity
Usually paired with other types of prompting Difficult to fade

The learner must be able to understand and follow verbal directions

Modeling
The learner copies the action(s) of another person performing the desired behavior
In person Video tape

The learner must be able to imitate the actions of another person Modeling is usually paired with other types of prompting

Manual Prompting
Manual prompting is physical guidance from another person Most effective when the prompter cues the learner from behind
Hand over hand Forearm shoulder

It can be used in the absence of other types of prompting Easier to fade than other prompting methods

Gestural
Using an action to cue the learner
Pointing Nodding Motioning Approving or disapproving looks

Used in combination with other types of prompting May be difficult to fade

Textual Prompts
Written information or instructions
Checklists
Scripts Pictures

Spatial
Arranging materials to highlight the correct response
Can be used in the absence of other types of prompting Required preplanning

Performance and Prompting

Incorrect response without a prompt
If this happens often, consider prompting

Incorrect response with a prompt

If this happens often, the prompt must be changed

Correct response with a prompt

If this happens often, fade prompt

Correct response without a prompt

Independence

Prompt Dependence
A prompt is proven effective as a teaching strategy, if when removed, the learner responds to the cues in the natural environment Prompt dependence occurs when the learner responds to the prompts rather than cues in the natural environment Reinforcement of prompted responses increases the probability of prompt dependence

Prompt Fading
A prompt is only effective if it can be faded Fading too soon results in errors in the target behavior Prompting for too long results in prompt dependence

Prompting Considerations
The learner The environment The ease of implementation How you plan to fade the prompt?

Choosing Prompt Procedures

Least-to-most procedures enables student to perform as independently as possible
Increase assistance as needed

Most-to-least procedures is used for rapid skill acquisition

Decreasing assistance
Rapid skill acquisition with fewer errors

Conclusion
What is the role of the educator?
Finding prompts that work
Using prompts that lead to independence Develop a plan to fade prompts