Discreet Trial: What Is It?

<font face="Comic Sans MS" font color="336699">Discreet Trial is a method of working with children using a strong cognitive-behavioral approach. Introduced by Lovaas in the 1970s, it became a household word for families with a child with Autism. During the 80s, Discreet Trial sort of disappeared, only to re-surface with strength today.

Discreet Trial involves a very systematic approach to teaching and learning. "Tasks" are presented in repetition to the child over a set time period. Correct responses are strongly reinforced, while consequences for non-compliance are also reinforced. For example, to teach a young child to "sit", the child would be instructed to "sit" repeatedly over a predetermined time period. If the child sat, s/he would be rewarded. If not, there would be a consequence.