Teaching Generalization in Learning

May Beaubrun, a board-certified behavior analyst, discusses programming for generalization in behavior analysis. Generalization involves applying learned skills across different contexts, people, and materials. The video explains types of generalization, such as stimulus and response generalization, and provides examples. It also covers teaching methods to promote generalization and prevent stimulus overselectivity. Attributes of concepts are illustrated using examples, emphasizing the importance of explicit instruction for effective generalization.

What is an example of generalization in learning?

• Applying a learned skill in various contexts

• Learning to drive only one model of car

• Memorizing a list of words

• Practicing a skill in the same environment

Why might generalization need to be taught explicitly?

• To focus on a single stimulus

• To limit the application of skills

• To ensure skills are applied in different contexts

• Because it occurs naturally in all situations

What is stimulus generalization?

• Ignoring all stimuli

• Changing the response to the same stimulus

• Responding to different stimuli with the same response

• Learning a skill in one context only

How can you determine if generalization has occurred?

• By ensuring the skill is not used at all

• By teaching the skill repeatedly in one context

• By checking if the skill is used in the same setting

• By observing if the skill is applied across different settings and people

What is an example of generalization across settings?

• Saying 'hi' to only one person

• Washing hands before meals at both school and home

• Using a computer in one location

• Driving only one model of car

What is a strategy to promote generalization?

• Reinforcing responses only in training settings

• Avoiding naturally occurring opportunities

• Focusing on a single stimulus

• Training in generalized settings

What does stimulus over-selectivity refer to?

• Focusing on only one aspect of an environment

• Responding to every stimulus

• Ignoring all stimuli

• Focusing on all aspects of an environment

How can varying attributes of a concept aid in teaching?

• By avoiding any changes

• By using only one example

• By keeping the concept constant

• By changing the context, size, and color

Which attribute is NOT mentioned as a variable for teaching concepts?

• Number

• Size

• Texture

• Color

What is the purpose of using different attributes in teaching?

• To limit the understanding of the concept

• To reinforce a single perspective

• To confuse the learner

• To help learners understand the concept in various forms