An evaluation of the impact of stimulus mode on acquisition, maintenance, and generalization of tacts of actions.

Individuals with an autism spectrum disorder or communication delay may experience deficits in tacting. Furthermore, children, with and without language impairments, acquire tacts of objects earlier than tacts of actions, suggesting that tacts of actions may be more difficult to learn (e.g., Sheng & McGregor, 2010). One variable that may impact acquisition of tacts of actions is the type of stimulus (e.g., picture of the action; video of the action) used during training. This study compared acquisition of tacts of actions taught using pictures, videos, and in vivo models. Data were also collected on generalization and maintenance of the acquired tacts as well as participant preference towards the stimulus mode used during tact training. All three participants acquired all tacts, independent of the stimulus mode used during training. However, tacts of actions taught using an in vivo model were acquired in fewer sessions and had greater generalization and maintenance outcomes. In addition, preference for a specific stimulus mode was idiosyncratic across participants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]