The importance of multiple exemplar instruction in the establishment of novel verbal behavior

According to traditional linguistic accounts language, and its generative nature, cannot be taught. From a behavior analytic perspective, language is like any other behavior; it is learned and amenable to change. Based upon Skinner's radical behavioral analysis of verbal behavior, specific proc...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of applied behavior analysis 2020, Vol.53 (1), p.10-24
Main Authors: LaFrance, Danielle L., Tarbox, Jonathan
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Behavior
Behavior Change
Behavior Patterns
Behavioral Science Research
generativity
intervention
Language
Learning
multiple exemplar instruction
multiple exemplar training
Teaching
Teaching Methods
Theories
verbal behavior
Verbal Communication
Verbal Stimuli
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Summary:According to traditional linguistic accounts language, and its generative nature, cannot be taught. From a behavior analytic perspective, language is like any other behavior; it is learned and amenable to change. Based upon Skinner's radical behavioral analysis of verbal behavior, specific procedures have been designed to promote novel verbal relations. However, despite the strength and utility of this approach, using behavioral principles to understand the generativity of language has been challenging. Dependent upon the specific theory (e.g., stimulus equivalence, relational frame theory, bidirectional naming) within the radical behavioral orientation, researchers arrange unique procedures to evaluate the variables responsible for this phenomenon. This paper presents the commonalities and differences of two procedures (i.e., multiple exemplar training, multiple exemplar instruction) with examples of research highlighting the use of both in producing generativity. Further, it describes how multiple exemplar instruction is independent from other procedures leading to this outcome, and concludes by providing recommendations for both research and practice.
ISSN:0021-8855
1938-3703
DOI:10.1002/jaba.611