Association for Behavior Analysis International

A large body of evidence exists supporting the use of preference assessment as part of providing behavior analytic services to individuals with disabilities. Although several empirically supported methods for identifying preference exist, practitioners and researchers often need to modify and individualize preference assessments to meet client needs, especially when using emerging technologies. For example, practitioners and researchers may need to identify preference for content on electronic devices or modalities for augmentative and assistive technology. The purpose of this symposium is to highlight the use of alternative forms of preference assessments. The first speaker will present a literature review study examining the efficacy of alternative modality stimulus preference assessments. The second speaker will present a study examining a modified MSWO preference assessment using picture icons to assess preference for content on an iPad. The third speaker will present a study examining preference for alternative communication apps commonly used by individuals with disabilities. Implications for alternative modality and individualized preference assessments will be discussed.

Applied Behavior Analysts, Researchers, Behavior Analytic Practitioners, Educators

The purpose of this review was to identify investigations comparing the efficacy of alternative modality stimulus preference assessments for individuals with developmental disabilities. We identified articles by searching peer-reviewed journals using the PsycINFO and ERIC databases, conducting table of content searches of common behavioral outlets, and conducting ancestral searches of recent reviews and practitioner summaries of preference assessment methods. A total of 32 articles met our inclusion criteria. These studies were then coded across a variety of features to gain a better understanding of the efficacy of alternative format preference assessment for individuals with developmental disabilities. In addition, we reviewed this literature for the use of prerequisite skill assessments and contingent reinforcer access to further investigate the relation between these variables and the success of pictorial, verbal, and video preference assessments. A variety of methodological concerns are discussed as well as suggestions for future research.

High tech items, such as iPads, are increasingly being used for individuals receiving behavior analytic services. When using iPads as part of behavioral services, it is important to assess preference for content delivered on the device, (i.e., applications or apps). Presenting apps for selection within a multiple stimulus without replacement (MSWO) preference assessment may involve unique difficulties (i.e., having multiple iPads to deliver an app on each screen, or needing to move apps around on the device prior to every presentation). This study examined the effects of using pictures depicting app icons within an MSWO preference assessment followed by reinforcer assessments to validate preference assessment outcomes. Participants included six adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities attending a vocational day program. Results of the app icon preference assessment included identifying preference hierarchies for all participants. Subsequently, when given a choice to earn different apps, five participants showed a clear pattern of responding toward the highest preferred app. Results have implications for using alternative formats when conducting preference assessments using high-tech devices.