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Sequence learning in individuals with behavioural limitations
R Stromer1, H A Mackay, M Cohen
1Eunice Kennedy Shriver Centre, Waltham, Massachusetts.
Journal of Intellectual Disability Research : JIDR
|June 1, 1993
Summary
Individuals with developmental limitations can learn sequential tasks by understanding relative positions, not just rote memorization. This study shows how experience shapes ordinal relation formation in these individuals.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Psychology
- Developmental Psychology
- Behavior Analysis
Background:
- Understanding how individuals with developmental limitations acquire sequential knowledge is crucial for educational and therapeutic interventions.
- Prior research suggests that learning sequences can involve forming stimulus relations beyond simple stimulus-response chains.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate sequence production in individuals with developmental limitations after training specific orders.
- To determine if learning is based on relative positional understanding or rote memorization.
- To explore the formation of stimulus classes in sequence production.
Main Methods:
- Three participants (two adults with intellectual disabilities, one typically developing preschooler) were trained on five-term sequences (A1-A5 and B1-B5).
- Performance was assessed using two-term and five-term probes, including mixed sequences of both sets.
- Data analysis focused on consistency between trained sequences and probe performance.
Main Results:
- Probe data aligned with trained five-term sequences, indicating learning based on relative position.
- Replication with a second sequence confirmed initial findings.
- Mixed-probe data demonstrated consistent performance, suggesting the formation of mutually substitutable stimulus classes.
Conclusions:
- Experiential variables significantly influence the formation of ordinal relations in individuals with developmental limitations.
- Findings support the development of relational learning strategies over rote memorization for this population.
- The study contributes to understanding complex sequence production and stimulus class formation in diverse cognitive profiles.
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