When beginning to teach a response using errorless learning, what approach should be taken?

When employing errorless learning to teach a response, starting by providing the most assistance necessary is a foundational strategy. This method is designed to prevent the learner from making errors during the initial phases of skill acquisition. By offering significant support, the learner is guided to perform the desired response correctly, reinforcing positive associations with the task and the learning process itself.

The approach often includes modeling the correct response, using physical prompts, or providing verbal guidance as needed. This high level of assistance ensures that the learner experiences success right away, minimizing frustration and promoting confidence. Once the learner demonstrates consistent success with the maximum support, the assistance can gradually be reduced according to the learner's capabilities, ultimately leading them toward independence in the skill.

In contrast, starting with minimal assistance or without any support may lead to errors, which can negatively affect the learner's self-esteem and motivation. Peer modeling might be beneficial at certain points, but it is not the primary strategy in an errorless learning framework, where the emphasis is on reducing errors to facilitate smoother learning transitions.