Abstract:
The use of web-based services to deliver training is a new area of research with preliminary results from both applied behaviour analysis (ABA) and other health care professions showing promise that it can be used successfully to train parents, staff, and para-professionals (Kobak, Stone, Ousley, & Swanson, 2011; Jang et al., 2012). However, the results measured in previous research are not synchronised nor is training necessarily delivered using an empirically supported method; for example behavioural skills training (BST) (Reid, O’Kane, & Macurik, 2011). The current research is an extension of Sy, Mudford, Higgins, and Sharp (2014) and examined whether web-based BST could be directly comparable to in-person BST. A non-concurrent multiple baseline design was used to examine the training of differential reinforcement to five caregivers (‘carers’) of individuals with disabilities (‘learners’). Training was delivered using an informational video, video modelling, rehearsal of the skill and feedback – either in-person or via video conference. Results found similar outcomes on measures of carer performance, learner performance, level of knowledge, and social validity responses between the two training methods; this demonstrates preliminary evidence for the use of BST in a web-based format. The ability to train a behavioural skill which had not previously been researched, and the ability for web-based trainings to provide a cost effective alternative to in-person trainings was also concluded from the current study. Overall, the results suggest that video conferencing can be successfully utilised to provide evidence based training to caregivers.