Abstract:
The accessibility of personal computers and the Internet, combined with other advances in technology, has allowed for the introduction of online behavioural skills training (BST) programmes for caregivers of individuals with disabilities. Although recent research has demonstrated the effectiveness of such web-based BST programmes in training caregiver knowledge competencies, effects on caregiver performance have not been thoroughly investigated. The current study used a non-concurrent multiple baseline design across participants to assess the efficacy of a web-based BST programme in “e-training” three caregivers to use least-to-most (LTM) prompting—a procedure regularly used in behavioural interventions to teach new skills or increase compliance—with the individuals with disabilities for whom they cared (“learners”). E-training consisted of explanatory material (i.e., written instructions, lecture, and demonstrations) presented within a web-accessible video, then rehearsal and feedback via video and web-conferencing software. Results demonstrated a pre- to post-training increase in knowledge test scores for all three caregivers and an increase in the actual percentage of correct implementation of LTM prompting to at least 90% on three consecutive sessions following the rehearsal and feedback components of e-training. Learner benefits and social validity were investigated as secondary dependent variable measures. Overall, results suggest that the integration of such technology with BST may be an effective and socially valid ABA training solution for caregivers, especially for those in geographically remote areas.