Education training to support the collection and use of Intervention Selection Profile-Function data: Two randomized...

Area of Science:

• Educational Psychology
• Applied Behavior Analysis
• Special Education

Background:

• The Intervention Selection Profile-Function (ISP-Function) is a validated tool for abbreviated functional assessments.
• Educator accuracy in collecting and utilizing ISP-Function data is crucial for effective intervention planning.
• Understanding the necessity of training and practice for ISP-Function data use is key.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of training and practice on educators' accuracy in collecting and using ISP-Function data.
• To determine if practice opportunities enhance the effectiveness of basic training for ISP-Function data interpretation.
• To inform best practices for professional development related to functional assessment tools.

Main Methods:

• Two randomized controlled trials were conducted with elementary school educators.
• Participants were assigned to Control, Basic Training, or Basic Training + Practice groups.
• Study 1 focused on data collection accuracy (rating videos); Study 2 focused on decision-making accuracy (vignettes).

Main Results:

• Basic training, with or without practice, improved educators' accuracy in both data collection and decision-making compared to controls.
• Practice opportunities did not consistently enhance rater accuracy in Study 1.
• Basic training alone was sufficient for accurate intervention-related decisions in Study 2.

Conclusions:

• Basic training is effective in improving educators' accuracy with the ISP-Function.
• While practice may not be essential, basic training is sufficient for accurate data use.
• Findings support the integration of basic training into professional development for educators using the ISP-Function.