Teaching computer-based spelling to individuals with developmental and hearing disabilities: Transfer of stimulus control to writing tasks

Author(s): Mackay, H. A., Howell, S. R., Mcvay, A. A., Flusser, D.

Journal/Book: J Appl Behav Anal. 1996; 29: Dept Human Development, Univ Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66045. Journal Appl Behav Anal. 25-42.

Abstract: Computer-based instruction may yield widely useful handwritten spelling. Illustrative cases involved individuals with mental retardation and hearing impairments. The participant in Study 1 matched computer pictures and printed words co one another but did not spell the words to pictures. Spelling was then taught using a computerized procedure. In general, increases in the accuracy of computer spelling were accompanied by improvements in written spelling to pictures. Study 2 extended these results with a 2nd participant. After initial training, spelling improved in the context of a retrieval task in which the participant (a) wrote a list of the names of objects displayed on a table, (b) selected the objects from a shelf, and (c) returned the objects to the table. Nearly perfect accuracy scores declined on some retrieval trials conducted without a list, suggesting chat the list may have served a mediating function during retrieval. Transfer of stimulus control of computer-based teaching to the retrieval task may have been attributable to the existence of stimulus classes involving pictures, objects, and printed words.

Note: Article R Stromer, Eunice Kennedy Shriver, Ctr Mental Retardat Inc, Behav Sci Div, 200 Trapelo Rd, Waltham, MA 02254 USA

Keyword(s): communication; spelling; matching to sample; transfer of stimulus control; multiple handicaps; ASSISTED-INSTRUCTION; MENTAL-RETARDATION; COMPLEX SAMPLES; EQUIVALENCE

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