Summary

The direct instruction strategies included in this module were selected for their effectiveness in naturally occurring routines and instructional settings. In selecting the most appropriate instructional strategy for a student, teachers and parents must continually ask themselves if, in comparison with other strategies, the procedure they have chosen offers the greatest chance for success, in the shortest amount of time, in the most natural (least restrictive) setting, with the least adult assistance. Remember, research suggests that less adult direction and greater opportunity for child-initiated behavior are generally associated with increased generalization of learned skills across settings, with different materials and people. Consequently, the most adult-directed instructional strategies should be reserved for the most significantly delayed student behavior, or for critical behaviors or skills that require rapid acquisition or extinction.

Identifying opportunities for direct instruction in natural settings, whether classroom or home, requires careful planning. The child’s entire day should be analyzed to identify potential opportunities for direct instruction. Also, parents and teachers need toconsider the complete hierarchy of effective instructional strategies when planning instructional opportunities. Setting the stage for success begins with arranging the physical space, using child preferences for materials and activities, structuring social aspects and routines within the child’s environment, and using peers to assist with the learning process. With these environmental supports in place, direct instruction strategies comprise an effective methodology for increasing opportunities for learning in the least restrictive setting.

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