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Synthesizing the Multiple-Probe Experimental Design With the PEAK Relational Training System in Applied Settings

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Abstract

The scientist-practitioner model necessitates embedding experimental designs within applied practice. This technical report describes a procedure for embedding a multiple-probe experimental design within the PEAK Relational Training System across all four PEAK modules. Baseline probes provide a direct test of target skills negatively endorsed within the PEAK assessment battery and can provide an estimate of skill acquisition in the absence of direct training. Temporal staggering of the probes maintains the fidelity of the experimental design and allows for the design to evolve along with learner skill acquisition. Achievement of mastery criteria demonstrates the efficacy of programming, and failure to achieve mastery can be remedied through programming adjustments that can be captured within the design. We additionally conducted a field test of the design with a child with disabilities, supporting the viability of this procedure within applied settings.

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Author Note

Special thanks go to Taylor Lauer and Annalise Giamanco, who provided considerable assistance developing and maintaining PEAK programming used within the field test of this design.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Psychology Department, Missouri State University, 901 S. National Ave., MO, 65897, Springfield, USA

    Jordan Belisle & Nicole R. McDonald

  2. Pendragon Academy, Pender Public School, 609 Whitney St., NE, 68047, Pender, USA

    Leah Clark & Kayla Welch

Authors
  1. Jordan Belisle
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  2. Leah Clark
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  3. Kayla Welch
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  4. Nicole R. McDonald
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Corresponding author

Correspondence to Jordan Belisle.

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Conflict of interest

The authors declare that they have no conflict of interest.

Ethical approval

All procedures performed in studies involving human participants were in accordance with the ethical standards of the institutional and/or national research committee (Missouri State University, FWA: 00004733) and with the 1964 Helsinki declaration and its later amendments or comparable ethical standards.

Funding

This project was funded by research awards developed by Project Alpha and Pender Public School (B02743-132022-73004-011) as part of an effort to infuse applied behavior-analytic research within applied settings.

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Belisle, J., Clark, L., Welch, K. et al. Synthesizing the Multiple-Probe Experimental Design With the PEAK Relational Training System in Applied Settings. Behav Analysis Practice 14, 181–192 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40617-020-00520-0

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