Generalization from school to home with autistic children

Abstract

This investigation assessed the generalization of verbal behavior from school to home with three autistic boys. The study attempted to expand upon previous research by Handleman (1979) by analyzing the effects of single versus multiple trainers on generalization. By the use of a multiple-baseline design counterbalanced for treatment condition, the three youngsters were taught responses to common questions in two school settings and were probed to determine transfer of learning to their homes. All three children demonstrated greater generalization when they received training at varied locations as opposed to instruction in a single setting. Results of the study suggest that manipulating the school environment to more closely simulate home conditions may facilitate transfer of treatment gains to the natural setting.