Edward J. Daly, III, Nikki J. Wells, Michelle S. Swanger-Gagné, James E. Carr, Gina M. Kunz, & Ashley M. Taylor.
Evaluation of the multiple-stimulus without replacement preference assessment method using activities as stimuli.
Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis,
42, 563-574.
The current study examined the accuracy of the multiple-stimulus
without replacement (MSWO) preference assessment for identifying
preferred common classroom activities as reinforcers with children with
behavioral disorders. The accuracy of predictions from the MSWO
regarding high, medium, and low stimulus preference was tested by
providing contingent access to activities for completing math problems
within an independent seatwork format. Overall, there was an interaction
effect between preference ranking (high, medium, or low) and number
of problems completed. The results confirm and extend previous findings
regarding the accuracy of predictions with the MSWO. The findings also
reveal, however, some individual differences that may account for instances
in which student behavior did not conform to predictions of stimulus
preference assessments.
DESCRIPTORS: math problem completion, preferences, reinforcer, preference assessment