Definition
Discrete Trial Training (DTT) is a structured teaching method used in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) where skills are broken down into small, teachable components. Each learning opportunity, or trial, has a clear beginning and end. Trials are presented in quick succession, and the student receives immediate feedback (reinforcement or correction) after each response. DTT is often used to teach new skills in a controlled and repetitive manner, ensuring that the student has multiple opportunities to practice and learn the targeted behavior or skill.
Example
A behavior therapist is using DTT to teach a child with autism to identify colors. The therapist holds up a red card and says, “What color is this?” If the child correctly responds with “red,” the therapist immediately provides praise or another form of reinforcement (e.g., a small token or sticker). If the child responds incorrectly, the therapist provides a gentle prompt or correction, such as repeating the question and pointing to the red card. This process is repeated several times with different colors to reinforce the learning.