Natural environment teaching (NET) involves systematically arranging training so that generalization of skills is more likely to occur.  In addition to teaching language and other related skills, NET can be used to promote generalization of skills taught using discrete trial training (DTT). This workshop is designed to help prepare participants to teach and promote generalization of language and other related skills to students with autism and other developmental disabilities utilizing natural environment teaching (NET).  Hands-on activities will provide instruction on how to select, plan, and implement individual and group lessons based on student motivation.  It is recommended that a VB-MAPP guide and protocol be brought to the workshop.

• Discuss developmentally appropriate ABA programming based upon individual student profiles.

• Explain the importance of conditioning neutral and/or non-preferred activities. with positive reinforcement for the purpose of increasing NET opportunities.

• Utilize criteria for selecting appropriate NET activities.

• Organize environment to ensure successful implementation of NET.

• Demonstrate research-based teaching procedures during NET.

• Create an original NET lesson plan.

• Employ an efficient and effective data collection system for NET.