Total task chaining allows for what type of assistance?

Total task chaining is a teaching strategy used primarily in behavior analysis and special education that involves the learner completing an entire task in a sequence, with support provided as needed throughout all steps of the task. This method is particularly effective for teaching complex skills or tasks that involve multiple components.

When using total task chaining, the instructor provides assistance on each step based on the learner's needs. This means that if a student struggles with any part of the process, the instructor can intervene to provide the necessary support, whether it be verbal prompts, physical assistance, or reminders. This approach helps build the learner’s independence progressively as they become more proficient at each part of the task.

Providing support on all steps allows the student to practice the entire task, reinforcing their learning and enabling them to understand how each step contributes to completing the overall task. This contrasts with other methods that may limit assistance to specific steps or reduce guidance as the learner progresses.