Question
What is the difference between a traditional versus an auditory approach to handwriting?
Answer
- Traditional
- Plenty of Instructions
- Focus on Incorrect
- Correct Errors
- Acoustic Approach (TAGteach)
- Few Instructions
- Short Instructions
- Focus on Success
- Ignore Errors
There are two different approaches. In the traditional approach, we give a lot of instruction because we want to be sure that our learners have all the information before they try to do the behavior. We also focus on incorrect responses. Our feedback is, "This is correct, but you forgot to do XYZ," or "Next time, try to improve XYZ." In TAGteach, we deliver a few instructions and focus on success. The sound of the tagger when completing the task is the tag point. The therapist ignores the errors.
- Minimal Verbal Intrusion
- Shaping (teaching without words)
- Clear Information
- Focus on:
- Behavior components (break it down)
- Learner's Success
The benefits of an acoustic approach (TAGteach) are listed above. We use minimal verbal intrusion. For example, when working with autistic students, they may respond better to less verbal instruction. The less we talk, the better for the student.
We can also rely on shaping with nonverbal students. We are providing clear information. By the end of my instructing the students, the students will know 100% what they are supposed to do, and that is where they can find success.
This Ask the Expert is an edited excerpt from the course, Teach Handwriting Using Auditory Feedback, by Aditi Mehra
DHSc, OTR/L, and Luca Canever, MA, BA.
