Behavioral Principles
Positive Reinforcement
Positive reinforcement is delivered when a consequence that increases the likelihood of the reoccurrence of the behavior occurs after the performance of the behavior.
A way that positive reinforcements for a student can be identified are through a reinforcement survey, that can be administered to the student. The student can select their preferred reinforcements when they preform the desired behavior. An example of a reinforcement survey is shown below.
A way that positive reinforcements for a student can be identified are through a reinforcement survey, that can be administered to the student. The student can select their preferred reinforcements when they preform the desired behavior. An example of a reinforcement survey is shown below.
Reinforcement Sampling Procedures
There are other procedures that special educators can utilize to select positive reinforcers for students. They are described below.
Single-Item Presentation
In this procedure, the student is presented one item at a time. They are given a predetermined amount of time to interact with the item. During that time period, the level of interaction and enthusiasm the student demonstrates towards the item determines the interest/preference level the item has as a potential reinforcer. Below is a video that demonstrates how a single-item presentation assessment is conducted in order to determine the student's preferred items.
Choice or Forced Choice Presentation
In this procedure, the instructor provides two items at a time for the student. The student indicates which item they prefer by reaching towards one of the two selected items. Therefore, a teacher is able to assess which item the student prefers, and which is more likely to be a positive behavioral reinforcement. Below is a video that indicates what this procedure entails.
Multiple Stimulus Presentation
In this procedure, the student is presented with all of the potential items of reinforcement. Once a student interacts with an item, it is removed from their presence. This process continues until all items have been removed by the instructor. This provides the instructor with an insight of the child's item preferences. This procedure can continue several times to confirm the student's item preferences. Below is a video demonstrating this procedure.