Partially Automated Training for Implementing, Summarizing, and Interpreting Trial-Based Functional Analyses
A short, mostly automated online package can train parents to run trial-based FAs accurately at home.
01Research in Context
What this study did
Standish et al. (2023) built a mostly online course for parents. It taught three skills: run a trial-based FA, read the data, and store the sheets.
Six parents first practiced with fake data, then ran the whole process with their own child’s problem behavior.
What they found
Every parent hit the mastery bar in both settings. They gave the right test conditions, scored the data correctly, and filed the graphs without help.
How this fits with other research
Pettingell et al. (2022) showed a one-hour computer lesson can train school staff to run TBFAs. Standish adds parents and adds two new skills: summary and filing.
McGeown et al. (2013) found live BST beat computer-only for teaching discrete trials. Standish keeps the computer part but adds short video demos and auto-graded quizzes, closing the gap.
Alnemary et al. (2017) used face-to-face pyramid training. Standish swaps most of that for code, saving trainer hours while still hitting mastery.
Why it matters
You can now send parents a link instead of booking three in-home BST nights. They learn the same TBFA steps, plus how to graph and save the results. Try it next time a family waits months for an FBA slot.
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02At a glance
03Original abstract
Trial-based functional analysis (TBFA) is an accurate and ecologically valid assessment of challenging behavior. Further, there is evidence to suggest that individuals with minimal exposure to behavior analytic assessment methodology (e.g., parents, teachers) can quickly be trained to conduct TBFAs in naturalistic settings (e.g., schools, homes). Notwithstanding, the response effort associated with training development can be prohibitive and may preclude incorporation of TBFA into practice. To address this, we developed a partially automated training package, intended to increase the methodology’s accessibility. Using a multiple-probe across skills design, we assessed the degree to which the package increased caregiver accuracy in (a) implementing TBFAs, (b) interpreting TBFA outcomes, and (c) managing TBFA data. Six caregivers completed this study and all demonstrated proficiency following training, first during structured roleplays and again during assessment of their child’s actual challenging behavior.
Journal of Behavioral Education, 2023 · doi:10.1007/s10864-021-09456-z