Modeling prompt
A response prompt in which the RBT, or another person or a video, demonstrates all or part of the correct response for the learner to imitate.
A modeling prompt shows the learner what to do. The RBT might clap their hands so the learner claps, say a word so the learner says it, or show how to fold a towel before the learner does it. Models can be live or on video, and they can show the full response or only the first part (a partial model).
Modeling prompts work only if the learner can imitate. A learner who does not yet copy actions or sounds will not benefit from a model, and imitation skills may need to be taught first. For vocal responses, a model the learner repeats is an echoic prompt.
Models are usually considered less intrusive than physical prompts because the RBT does not touch the learner. They are useful for motor skills, play, social skills and language. Video modeling can be helpful for routines and social situations.
Like other prompts, models must be faded. Plans may move from a full model to a partial model to no model, or use time delay. The RBT records when a model was used so the data show how independent the learner is.
Example and non-example
| Example | The RBT says "Stack the cups." When the child does not start, the RBT stacks two cups to show how and hands the child a new set. The child stacks them, and the RBT gives a high five. |
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| Non-example | The RBT points at the cups when the child does not start. A point directs attention but does not demonstrate the response, so it is a gestural prompt. |
Don't confuse it with
| Gestural prompt | A gestural prompt points or motions toward the answer; a modeling prompt demonstrates the response itself. |
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| Physical prompt | A physical prompt touches and guides the learner; a modeling prompt only shows what to do. |
Test yourself
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Question 1The RBT holds up a red block and says "What color?" The client does not answer, so the RBT says "Red." In this trial, the RBT saying "Red" is:
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C: A response prompt in the form of a vocal model. Saying the answer for the client to repeat is a vocal model prompt, a type of response prompt added after the SD to help the client respond correctly. It is faded as the plan directs.
- A: The SD is the block with the question "What color?"; "Red" was added help.
- B: The client had not yet responded, so this is not a consequence.
- D: A stimulus prompt changes the materials themselves; this was a spoken model.
Task C.3 · 40-hour curriculum section E
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Question 2A task-analysis data sheet uses codes: I = independent, G = gestural, M = model, P = physical. On step 4, the RBT has to show the client how to do the step before the client does it. What should be recorded for step 4?
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D: M. Showing the client how to perform the step is a model prompt, so the step is scored M.
- A: The client needed help, so the step was not independent.
- B: A gestural prompt is a point or motion; the RBT demonstrated the step.
- C: A physical prompt involves touching or guiding the client, which did not happen.
Task C.5 · 40-hour curriculum section E
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Question 3An RBT teaches a teen to wipe a table. After saying "Wipe the table," the RBT wipes a small part of the table while the teen watches, then hands over the cloth. What type of prompt is the RBT's demonstration?
Show answer
D: Model prompt. A model prompt is a demonstration of all or part of the response for the learner to imitate. It can be live, as here, or on video.
- A: A gestural prompt points to or signals the response; here the RBT actually performs it.
- B: A partial physical prompt involves touching the learner, such as a tap on the arm; the RBT does not touch the teen.
- C: A visual prompt is a picture, written cue or similar display; a live demonstration is a model.
Task C.7 · 40-hour curriculum section E
Answer every question to see your score.
On the RBT exam
This term belongs to task C.7 Prompting and prompt fading in content area C, Behavior Acquisition, which is 19 of the 75 scored questions.