Lesson SEN 3
Task: Respond to visual stimulation.
Prerequisites: None (Fundamental vision abilities are assumed, otherwise this would be rated as "nonapplicable.")
Concept: For many students the process of learning takes place from a visual perspective. Being responsive may mean turning the head toward the source, smiling, or displaying any other physical indicator not observed until the stimulus was presented. Another aspect of this sample lesson is to attempt to initially provide stimulation from a variety of other senses. Light sources that are flashing need to be avoided for any student known or suspected to have epilepsy because these light activities have been demonstrated to induce seizures.
Behavioral Objective: When presented with a visual source that is perceived to be interesting to the student, the student will perform some overt action to indicate that he or she is responding to the stimulation to a 90% accuracy level for 20 trials.
Materials: Various age-appropriate items that also create sounds, vibrations, and/or pleasant odors. Numerous toys and therapeutic devices are available that can meet these requirements, but if items common to the student's environment can meet these criteria, they are preferred.
Task Analysis:
1. Present various items described in the materials section to the student and attempt to determine any responsiveness, even if that response is to sound, vibration, or odor. If responsiveness in any form is observed from any sensory input, provide extensive positive reinforcement to the student verbally and tactilely. (Note. Be sensitive to possible tactile defensiveness by the student. If that occurs, avoid using touch as reinforcement.)
2. Raving determined in Step 1 the items to which the student responds, use the same or similar items in such a manner that only visual stimulation is used. If responses are not present, physically guide the student's head or body in the direction of the visual source. Provide extensive reinforcement to the student when he or she is facing the object.
3. Continue Step 2, gradually reducing the physical guidance until none is needed. If this activity is unsuccessful, try changing the object being visually introduced.