Discrete Trial Training (DTT) is a structured, evidence-based teaching method commonly used to help individuals with developmental disabilities learn new skills. By breaking down complex skills into smaller, manageable steps, DTT provides a clear and systematic way to teach language, social skills, academic concepts, and self-help tasks.
Let’s explore how DTT works, its key components, and how to implement it effectively.
What is Discrete Trial Training (DTT)?
DTT is a one-on-one teaching approach that follows a structured format to maximize learning. The therapist or instructor presents a specific instruction, the student responds, and a consequence follows based on the correctness of the response. Frequent trials and immediate feedback make it a powerful tool for skill acquisition.
The Three Key Components of a Discrete Trial
Each discrete trial consists of three essential parts:
- Instruction (Antecedent) – The therapist delivers a clear and concise instruction.
- Example: “Touch the red ball.”
- Student’s Response (Behavior) – The student responds by either completing the task correctly or incorrectly.
- Correct response: The student touches the red ball.
- Incorrect response: The student touches the blue ball or does not respond.
- Consequence (Reinforcement or Correction) – The therapist provides immediate feedback.
- Correct response → Positive reinforcement (praise, token, favorite toy).
- Incorrect response → Correction procedure (prompting, modeling, or gently guiding the correct response).
Why Use Discrete Trial Training?
DTT is widely used because it:
✔ Breaks down skills into smaller steps for easier learning.
✔ Provides immediate reinforcement and correction to shape behavior.
✔ Uses repetition and structured trials to help individuals master skills quickly.
✔ Can be customized to teach a wide range of skills, including communication, daily living, and academic concepts.
How to Implement DTT Successfully
1. Identify the Target Skill
Choose a skill that the learner needs to develop, such as:
- Identifying colors
- Following one-step directions
- Making eye contact
- Requesting preferred items
2. Prepare Materials and Reinforcers
Have the necessary materials ready, including:
- Visual supports, flashcards, or objects related to the task
- Reinforcers (stickers, tokens, favorite snacks, or praise)
- Data collection sheets to track progress
3. Deliver Clear Instructions
Use short and simple instructions to avoid confusion. Examples:
- “Point to the cat.”
- “Say hello.”
- “Clap your hands.”
Ensure your tone is neutral and encouraging to maintain engagement.
4. Reinforce Correct Responses Immediately
If the learner responds correctly, provide immediate reinforcement to increase the likelihood of repeating the behavior.
- “Great job! Here’s a sticker.”
- “You did it! Let’s play with your favorite toy.”
The reinforcement should be motivating and varied to maintain interest.
5. Correct Incorrect Responses Promptly
If the learner makes an error, use an error correction procedure such as:
- Prompting – Show the correct response (e.g., guiding their hand to the correct object).
- Modeling – Demonstrate the correct response and ask the learner to try again.
- Repetition – Give another opportunity to respond correctly.
6. Keep Trials Fast-Paced and Engaging
To maintain attention and motivation:
- Keep each trial short (5–10 seconds).
- Use a mix of mastered and new skills to prevent frustration.
- Incorporate natural breaks to avoid fatigue.
7. Collect and Analyze Data
Track progress by recording responses for each trial. Data collection helps determine:
- Which skills are improving
- Where additional support is needed
- When to increase difficulty or reduce prompting
8. Promote Generalization
One challenge with DTT is ensuring skills transfer beyond the training environment. Strategies to support generalization include:
- Teaching the skill in different locations (home, school, playground).
- Having multiple instructors work with the learner.
- Using varied materials and instructions (e.g., “Wave hello” vs. “Say hi”).
Final Thoughts
DTT is an effective tool for teaching essential skills to individuals with developmental disabilities. Its structured format, combined with reinforcement and correction, creates a supportive learning environment that encourages skill acquisition. However, it’s equally important to focus on generalization strategies to ensure that newly learned behaviors are applied in real-world settings.
With consistency, patience, and proper implementation, DTT can help learners gain independence, confidence, and meaningful life skills.
What has been your experience with DTT? Let’s discuss in the comments!