What happens in a discrete trial when a child responds correctly?

When a child responds correctly in a discrete trial, they receive reinforcement for their correct response. This reinforcement can take various forms, such as verbal praise, tokens, or access to preferred activities or items. The purpose of this reinforcement is to strengthen the behavior and increase the likelihood that the child will engage in the correct response in the future. Reinforcing a correct response serves to motivate the child and creates a positive learning environment, which is essential for skill acquisition.

Reinforcement is a fundamental component of applied behavior analysis (ABA) and helps children learn through positive association. In discrete trials, the structure of providing immediate feedback is crucial for effective teaching and skill development. This approach encourages repeated practice and progress, making reinforcement a critical aspect of the discrete trial training methodology.