The current study examined methods for training teachers to use functional analysis methods. Teachers first received written and verbal instructions detailing attention and demand conditions. They then received training that included modeling, rehearsal, and performance feedback. Finally, probes were taken during ongoing class instruction. Results indicate that teachers acquired the skills and used them in classroom settings.

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Few studies have been conducted in the area of social stories, and the limitations of these studies (i.e., improper story construction and methodological confounds) raise questions about effectiveness of social story interventions. This study examined the effectiveness of properly constructed social stories that have been introduced into the natural environment to target the disruptive behavior of three children with autism. A multiple baseline design across participants was employed, and a decrease in disruptive behavior was evidenced when the intervention was implemented for all participants. Based on the results of the present research, future areas of investigation outlining the limitations and potential benefits of social stories were discussed.

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The accuracy of various momentary time-sampling (MTS) interval lengths in estimating continuous measures of behavior and the implications for classroom data collection procedures were examined. Continuous interval recording records were simulated to provide standards against which to assess MTS interval lengths of 30 seconds and 5, 10, and 20 minutes. Standards were constructed to simulate behavior that occurred during 20%, 40%, 60%, and 80% of the total intervals observed. Each MTS percent occurrence estimate was compared to the percent occurrence represented by the standard. The data revealed that short MTS interval lengths were more accurate and that level of percent occurrence did not differentially affect MTS estimates. The ability of MTS to reflect increasing and decreasing behavior trends and the interaction of MTS interval lengths with various percent occurrence levels also were examined.

Translating current research to school-based clinical practice highlights issues not often encountered in laboratory settings. With the assistance of a consultant, teachers conducted functional analyses, brief multielement treatment comparisons, and controlled treatment evaluations under naturalistic conditions in the classroom. Teachers also provided input on treatment selection. Treatment integrity data collected throughout the study suggested that teachers implemented analyses and treatments with high integrity. The functional analysis outcomes combined with effectiveness and acceptability data led to the selection of interventions that reduced problem behavior in the classrooms for each of 3 children.

Using a multiple baseline across 3 mother/child dyads, a treatment package containing only the positive components of effective instruction delivery (EID) and time-in (TI) is shown to be effective in achieving acceptable levels of child compliance in clinic and home settings. Mothers were able to master the components of both EID and TI in the clinic. Skill mastery in the home increased for EID, but varied for TI. The potential benefit of additional programming to facilitate generalization of parent skills to the home is discussed.