What is a key characteristic of Discrete Trial Teaching (DTT)?

A key characteristic of Discrete Trial Teaching (DTT) is that it is teacher-controlled with a defined start and end. This structured approach facilitates the teaching of specific skills in a systematic way, allowing the instructor to break down tasks into smaller, manageable components. Each trial includes a clear instruction or prompt from the teacher, followed by the learner’s response, and concludes with feedback or reinforcement. This format cultivates a focused learning environment where the teacher’s guidance helps in tracking student progress and adjusting interventions as needed.

In contrast to this structured method, unstructured learning environments may not provide the same consistency or clarity needed in DTT. While focusing on natural motivation from the learner can be important in certain teaching methodologies, it is not a defining feature of DTT, which relies on teacher-directed interactions. Similarly, while peer interactions can facilitate learning in other contexts, DTT primarily emphasizes the one-on-one interaction between teacher and student to effectively teach discrete skills.