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Training and generalization of laundry skills: a multiple probe evaluation with handicapped persons
Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis
|January 1, 1982
Summary
This study successfully taught laundry skills to students using a step-by-step prompting and reinforcement method. Trained students demonstrated proficiency comparable to peers and maintained skills long-term.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral science
- Special education
Background:
- Individuals with disabilities often require explicit instruction for daily living skills.
- Laundering is a complex daily living skill with multiple components.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the effectiveness of a graded instructional procedure for teaching laundry skills.
- To evaluate skill generalization and maintenance over time.
Main Methods:
- A graded sequence of prompts and token reinforcement was employed.
- A multiple probe design with sequential instruction was utilized across seven laundering components.
- Training occurred in a school setting, with generalization assessed in a public laundromat.
Main Results:
- Students acquired sorting, washing, and drying skills effectively.
- Skills generalized to a public laundromat setting.
- Trained students performed comparably to their non-disabled peers.
Conclusions:
- The instructional procedure is effective for teaching complex daily living skills.
- The learned laundry skills were maintained over a 10-month period.
- This approach supports independence and skill acquisition for students.
