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Teaching adults with developmental disabilities to problem solve using electronic flowcharts in a simulated vocational setting
Author(s) -
Villante Natalie K.,
Lerman Dorothea C.,
Som Sopia,
Hunt Justin C.
Publication year - 2020
Publication title -
journal of applied behavior analysis
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.1
H-Index - 76
eISSN - 1938-3703
pISSN - 0021-8855
DOI - 10.1002/jaba.786
Subject(s) - flowchart , psychology , peck (imperial) , vocational education , applied behavior analysis , developmental psychology , mathematics education , computer science , pedagogy , autism , agronomy , biology , programming language
Teaching job‐related problem‐solving skills may increase the likelihood that individuals with developmental disabilities obtain and maintain employment (Kaye et al., 2011; Peck & Kirkbride, 2001; Unger, 2002). In this study, we evaluated the use of electronic‐based flowcharts on an iPod Touch as a form of self‐instruction to increase problem solving skills with 2 men diagnosed with developmental disabilities. An instructor implemented behavioral skills training (BST) to teach the participants how to use an electronic flowchart to solve one problem and then evaluated the participants' use of electronic flowcharts to solve other types of problems, including those that required more than one solution. Results showed increases in problem solving skills across at least 2 problems that were not associated with BST and increases across all problem exemplars with verbal reminders and feedback. These findings have important implications for increasing independence on the job and decreasing intrusive and costly supports for those with disabilities.