An Evaluation of Interactive Computerized Training to Teach Preservice Speech Language Pathologists to Implement Brief Multiple Stimulus Without Replacement Preference Assessments

Positive reinforcement is often used when teaching new skills. When working with individuals with developmental disabilities, it can be difficult to determine reinforcing items. Preference assessments can be used to identify items that may function as reinforcers. A multiple stimulus without replacement preference assessment (MSWO) produces a ranking of preferred items and can be conducted quickly. Researchers have utilized interactive computerized training (ICT) to teach behavior analytic skills and procedures. The present investigation aimed to extend previous MSWO training and ICT research by developing and evaluating the effects of an MSWO ICT implemented with speech language pathology graduate students. The results of the current study demonstrate that ICT may be effective to teach SLP graduate students to implement MSWO preference assessments. Results to evaluate the usefulness and applicability indicate that participants agree that the training prepared them to run the assessment. Potential weaknesses to the study are acknowledged along with suggestions for future research along this path.