What is forward chaining in the context of teaching behavior chains?

Forward chaining is a teaching method specifically designed to impart behavior chains. In this approach, the instructor prompts and reinforces the learner for completing the first behavior in the sequence. This means that the process starts with the initial step of the chain, and once the learner successfully masters that step, the instructor proceeds to the next behavior in the sequence, building upon prior knowledge and skills.

This method is effective because it reinforces the learner’s confidence and motivation by allowing them to experience success early in the learning process. Each subsequent behavior is taught in order, thus establishing a logical progression through the entire behavior chain. It is particularly beneficial for tasks that can be broken down into manageable steps, as it helps to develop a sense of accomplishment with each new behavior learned.

In contrast, other methods, such as backward chaining where the final behavior is taught first, focus on different aspects of task completion and result in varied learning experiences that do not follow the progressive structure that forward chaining employs.