Articles
IBI acronyms
Liz Day - Senior Therapist, Hon. BA, Rehab Dip.
When parents receive assessments and diagnosis for their children, often they are overwhelmed and are unfamiliar with the many new terms and words they are presented with. Here are a few simple descriptions of acronyms and terms that are often heard when addressing issues on autism.
What is ABA?
Applied Behavioural Analysis was a term used in early years of Psychology by Dr. Skinner. Simply, it is the study of behaviour and learning. We often use it to describe a type of therapy but really it is an umbrella definition for all principles of learning. In the 1970’s Dr. Lovas out of California started using the term to work with children with autism. It is breaking down what the behaviour is and possible reasons as to why it occurs or continues to occur.
(Ref: A Work in Progress, Leaf and McEachin, 1999; Geneva Centre for Autism, 2008; www.asohalton.org/aba.htm)
What is IBI?
Intensive Behaviour Therapy – again Dr. Lovas used this term in the treatment and teaching model passed on ABA for children with autism. Intensive meaning one on one, many hours every day (research shows 35-40 hours a week are optimal) and often discrete trial training is used. Today the term can be modified and used for various programs to match the individual’s needs.
(Ref: www.asohalton.org/ibi.htm; Geneva Centre for Autism 2008; A Work in Progress, Ron Leaf and John McEachin, 1999)
What is Discrete Trial Training?
This is a type of instruction used to learn new skills that presents a defined beginning and end. This is repeated and given positive correction and reinforcement with each response from the child until the skill is learned.
(Ref: A Work in Progress, Ron Leaf and John McEachin, 1999; www.polyxo.com/discretetrial/)
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