Ten Instructional Design Efforts to Help Behavior Analysts Take Up the Torch of Direct Instruction

Abstract

Although behavior analysts are trained in discrete trial instruction, other instructional approaches like Direct Instruction are underutilized in behavior analytic practice. Direct Instruction is a specialized technology that capitalizes on sophisticated instructional design and highly effective delivery strategies. What makes Direct Instruction so powerful is that it emphasizes the development of generative repertoires and establishes them efficiently. The purpose of this article is to introduce 10 critical instructional design efforts that behavior analysts can use in their practice, regardless of the population they serve and repertoires they build. The 10 instructional design efforts are summarized in a Direct Instruction Planning Guide. Behavior analysts can follow this sequence of design efforts and refer to the guiding questions as they develop efficient instruction for their learners. In doing so, behavior analysts can take up the torch of Direct Instruction, extend this remarkable instructional approach into their research and practice, and strengthen the behavioral technology available to behavior analytic practitioners.

Keywords: Direct Instruction; Generative; instructional design.

Fig. 1

Direct Instruction Planning Guide

Fig. 2

Example of a Scope and Sequence Chart for Teaching Academic Language

Fig. 3

Example of Scripted Lesson Activity

Fig. 4

Examples of Response Card Systems

Fig. 5

Example Instructional Formats Across Teaching Functions