The Effects of Remote Behavioral Skills Training on Conducting Functional Analyses

Abstract

In the present study, we sought to extend the current literature on utilizing behavioral skills training (BST) to teach practitioners how to implement functional analyses (FA). We used a non-concurrent multiple baseline design across ten participants to measure the effects of a remote BST package on accuracy of implementing FA procedures. The entire remote BST package was delivered via secure remote technology. Each participant experienced four phases which included baseline (only instructions with a simulated client), BST (instructions, modeling, rehearsal, and feedback with a simulated client), post-training probes (probes with a simulated client), and in situ probes (probes with actual clients). All participants increased their accuracy in implementing FAs during the remote BST phase. During post-training probes with a simulated client and in situ probes with actual clients, eight of the ten participants maintained their performance at or above mastery criterion. Two of the ten participants needed additional coaching and training. These results suggest that the use of remote technology for training purposes could be a cost-effective and feasible solution to increase the quality of services and number of trained professionals in underserved areas.