Which method involves teaching the learner to complete only the final behavior in a task sequence?

Backward chaining is a method where the trainer focuses on teaching the learner to perform the last step of a task sequence first, then gradually works backward through the preceding steps. This approach is particularly effective because it allows the learner to experience the outcome of the entire task immediately after completing the last part, which can enhance motivation and provide a clear sense of achievement.

In backward chaining, once the learner successfully masters the final step, the trainer introduces the second-to-last step, and so on, until the entire sequence of tasks is learned. This method is often used when the final behavior is crucial for the learner's success or independence, as it emphasizes the importance of the end goal throughout the learning process.

The other methods, while effective in their own right, are distinct from backward chaining. Forward chaining begins with the first behavior in the sequence and systematically teaches subsequent steps, total task chaining teaches the entire task in one session, and prompt fading involves gradually reducing assistance during task completion without focusing on task sequence in a chain. Each of these methods serves different learning needs and contexts.