Using Adaptive Computer-based Instruction to Teach Staff to Implement a Social Skills Intervention

ABSTRACT

This study evaluated the effectiveness of an adaptive, computer-based staff training software program called Train-to-Code (TTC) to teach the administration of a social skills intervention. The software program actively trained participants to identify whether video models illustrated each step of the procedure effectively or ineffectively. Multiple exemplars of each step of the social skills task analysis were represented. Most-to-least prompting as well as feedback and error correction were embedded into the software program and prompts were faded through seven levels as the participant reached criterion accuracy. A multiple probe across participants design was used to evaluate the effectiveness of this program by comparing pre- and post-training in vivo probes conducted with a confederate learner. All participant scores increased from pre-training to post-training, indicating that Train-to-Code was effective at teaching administration of the social skills intervention. These results have implications for training staff in applied community settings. Due to Train-to-Code’s ability to be internet-based and to measure actual viewing performance, it has the potential for “distance training” deliveries.

KEYWORDS:

• Staff training
• train-to-Code
• social skills intervention
• behavior skills training

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by NIMH grant R34MH104407, Services to Enhance Social Functioning in Adults with autism spectrum disorder. The content is solely the responsibility of the authors and does not necessarily represent the official views of the National Institutes of Health.