1978, 11, 189-196 | R. DON HORNER AND DONALD M. BAER
The multiple-probe technique is a variation of the multiple-baseline design, combining both methods to thoroughly analyze the relationship between an independent variable and the acquisition of a successive-approximation or chain sequence. It addresses questions about initial performance levels, the effects of sequential opportunities to perform steps before training, the impact of training, and how performance changes as criteria are met in prior steps. The technique includes initial baseline probes, additional probes after criterion is reached, and true baseline sessions before introducing the independent variable. It also serves as an alternative to continuous baseline measurement when it is reactive, impractical, or when a priori stability is assumed.
The multiple-probe technique is applied to chain or successive-approximation sequences, with initial baseline probes on each step, additional probes after criterion is met, and true baseline sessions before introducing the independent variable. It provides a method for establishing a thorough analysis of the functional relationship between an independent variable and the acquisition of a sequence of successive approximations or a chain. It also offers an alternative to continuous measurement during extended multiple baselines.
The technique is useful in situations where continuous baseline measurement is impractical, reactive, or when a priori stability is assumed. It can replace continuous baseline measurement in such cases. The multiple-probe technique also helps in determining the effects of training on behaviors, including generalization and facilitation effects. It is particularly useful in evaluating the effectiveness of interventions, especially when behaviors are not yet subjected to the independent variable.
The technique has limitations, such as fewer opportunities for performing behaviors not yet subjected to the independent variable compared to the multiple-baseline design. It is not appropriate when continuous performance before the introduction of an independent variable is required. However, it provides a stable baseline and avoids the collection of pro forma zero baseline points when performance is impossible or unlikely before acquisition of preceding components.
The multiple-probe technique provides a procedure for collecting data that allows for a thorough functional analysis of variables related to the acquisition of behavior across the components of a chain or successive-approximation sequence. It also offers an alternative method for establishing stable baselines when continuous measurement during extended multiple baselines is impractical, unnecessary, or reactive.The multiple-probe technique is a variation of the multiple-baseline design, combining both methods to thoroughly analyze the relationship between an independent variable and the acquisition of a successive-approximation or chain sequence. It addresses questions about initial performance levels, the effects of sequential opportunities to perform steps before training, the impact of training, and how performance changes as criteria are met in prior steps. The technique includes initial baseline probes, additional probes after criterion is reached, and true baseline sessions before introducing the independent variable. It also serves as an alternative to continuous baseline measurement when it is reactive, impractical, or when a priori stability is assumed.
The multiple-probe technique is applied to chain or successive-approximation sequences, with initial baseline probes on each step, additional probes after criterion is met, and true baseline sessions before introducing the independent variable. It provides a method for establishing a thorough analysis of the functional relationship between an independent variable and the acquisition of a sequence of successive approximations or a chain. It also offers an alternative to continuous measurement during extended multiple baselines.
The technique is useful in situations where continuous baseline measurement is impractical, reactive, or when a priori stability is assumed. It can replace continuous baseline measurement in such cases. The multiple-probe technique also helps in determining the effects of training on behaviors, including generalization and facilitation effects. It is particularly useful in evaluating the effectiveness of interventions, especially when behaviors are not yet subjected to the independent variable.
The technique has limitations, such as fewer opportunities for performing behaviors not yet subjected to the independent variable compared to the multiple-baseline design. It is not appropriate when continuous performance before the introduction of an independent variable is required. However, it provides a stable baseline and avoids the collection of pro forma zero baseline points when performance is impossible or unlikely before acquisition of preceding components.
The multiple-probe technique provides a procedure for collecting data that allows for a thorough functional analysis of variables related to the acquisition of behavior across the components of a chain or successive-approximation sequence. It also offers an alternative method for establishing stable baselines when continuous measurement during extended multiple baselines is impractical, unnecessary, or reactive.