Increasing on‐task behavior of an adolescent with autism using momentary differential reinforcement

Abstract

Compliance is often defined as the completion of a discrete task specified by a preceding instruction. However, compliance could also require the completion of a cluster of tasks, such as cleaning a room, getting ready for bed, or doing homework. We conducted this study to determine if a momentary differential reinforcement schedule would increase the on-task behavior of an adolescent with autism. The momentary differential reinforcement involved repeated momentary supervision checks, with tokens delivered for appropriate task engagement at that moment. The participant completed math worksheets and remained on task as the number of supervisions was faded from one every 30 s to one every 5 min.

Using an App-Based Token Economy to Increase Engagement in Daily Living and Vocational Tasks with Adults with Developmental Disabilities

“…In addition, because we used fixed-ratio schedules in this study, the instructors had to continuously observe the participants’ behavior during sessions in order to deliver points following the specified number of responses. This can be effortful, but research has shown that momentary differential reinforcement schedules, in which instructors “check in” during fixed or variable intervals and deliver reinforcers contingent on momentary engagement or response products, can also be effective in maintaining task engagement (e.g., Jessel et al, 2017 ). Future research could evaluate the use of such schedules in the context of an app-based token economy.…”

The Application of AI as Reinforcement in the Intervention for Children With Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD)

“…Reinforcers can be shown in a variety of ways with creative presentations; elements of surprise and suspense can make children with ASD more excited to play the reinforcer; enthusiastic tone and positive facial expression, go along with sound effects and comments can also make the reinforcer seem more appealing; physical contacts like tickles can make some children with ASD will link a new reinforcer with fun time. A humanoid robot is assumed to be an effective reinforcer because: 1) the robot which is originally designed to accompany children is age appropriate; 2) it is practical and easy to deliver; 3) the humanoid robot involved in this program is portable and user-friendly which can be used repeatedly and regularly; 4) the humanoid robot is not solitary and can be easily during other activities (Beaver et al, 2017;Anderson et al, 2017;Johnson et al, 2017;Jessel et al, 2017;Fritz et al, 2017;MacNaul et al, 2018;Goldman et al, 2019;Matsuda et al, 2019;Vandbakk et al, 2019). This research attempts to test the effectiveness of the humanoid Wukong as being the reinforcer applied in an intensive ABA intervention program.…”