System of Least Prompts: A Literature Review of Procedural Parameters

Abstract

This manuscript describes an instructional strategy, system of least prompts, and reviews the use of the procedure in the applied research literature. The literature is analyzed in terms of the populations for which the procedure has been used, the type of skills that have been taught with the procedure, and the results when the procedure was employed. The literature also is described in terms of previously identified parameters of the system of least prompts including (a) the number and type of prompts included in the least-to-most assistance prompt hierarchies, (b) the presentation of the target stimulus at each prompt level, (c) use of a fixed response interval, and (d) the delivery of reinforcement following correct prompted and unprompted responses. Summary statements and recommendations about future use and research are included.