There may be more physical and visual cues with fewer verbal directions. While not a newly developed approach, there is controversy about its use and effectiveness. Data collection and evaluation of data is essential to this approach. When using an ABA approach, the child s behavior is analyzed. Behaviors or skills are broken into small steps that are then taught systematically.
Baseline data is gathered prior to teaching a behavior.
There are many behavioral teaching techniques utilized in ABA programs. Each instructive practice session includes a series of short, concise instructional prompts with defined beginnings and endings. Reinforcers and corrections are used in response to the child s demonstration of the skill presented. Incidental teaching is another frequently used ABA technique that utilizes naturally occurring instructional situations. Although incidental teaching takes place in a natural setting, the learning opportunities are carefully planned.