The Hierarchy of Prompting is an effective teaching method that gradually reduces support to encourage independent learning. It involves a step-by-step approach to assist individuals in mastering new tasks or skills. Below are key points to understand how it works:
- Gradual Support: The method provides varying levels of assistance, starting with high support and gradually reducing it as the learner becomes more proficient.
- Task Breakdown: Tasks are broken down into smaller, manageable steps, making it easier for the learner to grasp and practice.
- Promotes Independence: By decreasing support over time, the learner gains confidence and learns to perform the task independently.
- Individualized Approach: The level of prompting is tailored to the learner’s abilities and needs, ensuring a personalized learning experience.
- Positive Reinforcement: Encouragement and positive reinforcement are given as the learner progresses through the steps.
- Examples of Hierarchy of Prompting in Action:
- Brushing Teeth: Initially, a parent may help a child with every step, gradually allowing the child to take on more responsibility until they can brush their teeth independently.
- Homework Assistance: A teacher may provide detailed instructions for a challenging assignment, then gradually reduce guidance as the student becomes more proficient.
- Cooking Skills: A cooking instructor might start by demonstrating a recipe step-by-step and then encourage the students to follow along on their own, offering help only if needed.
The Hierarchy of Prompting is a valuable strategy that empowers learners by offering the right level of support, leading to increased independence and skill development. Goally’s tablet with fun apps supports kids through the Hierarchy of Prompting, fostering independence and skill development in life, language, emotional regulation, executive functioning, and social skills.
This post was originally published on Feb. 11, 2023. It was updated on July 21, 2023.