Learning happens best when skills are broken down into small, clear steps. That is the foundation of discrete trial training DTT. Discrete trial training DTT is a structured teaching method used in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). It presents skills one step at a time, provides clear prompts, and uses reinforcement to strengthen correct responses.

This article explains what discrete trial training DTT is, how it works, what research says about it, and how it is used in autism therapy.

What Is Discrete Trial Training DTT?

Discrete trial training DTT is a teaching strategy that divides learning into brief, structured trials.

Each trial includes three parts:

1. Instruction
2. Response
3. Consequence

According to Autism Speaks, discrete trial training DTT uses repetition and reinforcement to help children master specific skills. The method is systematic and data-driven.

The Three Components of Discrete Trial Training DTT

1. Instruction (Antecedent)

The therapist gives a clear direction.

Example: “Touch red.”

The instruction is brief and specific.

2. Response (Behavior)

The child responds.

The response may be:

• Correct
• Incorrect
• No response

3. Consequence

The therapist provides feedback.

• Correct responses are reinforced.
• Incorrect responses are corrected and re-taught.

This structured format defines discrete trial training DTT.

Why Discrete Trial Training DTT Is Used

Discrete trial training DTT is effective because:

• Skills are broken into small units
• Repetition builds mastery
• Immediate feedback strengthens learning
• Data tracks progress

Raising Children Network explains that discrete trial training DTT is often used to teach communication, academic, and self-help skills.

What Skills Are Taught With Discrete Trial Training DTT?

Common targets include:

• Expressive language
• Receptive language
• Imitation
• Matching
• Early academic skills
• Self-help routines

For example: A therapist may teach a child to identify body parts.

Instruction: “Touch your nose.”

Correct response leads to praise or a preferred item. This structured repetition is core to discrete trial training DTT.

Case Example: Teaching Color IdentificationChild profile:

• Age 4
• Difficulty identifying colors

Discrete trial training DTT plan:

Step 1: Present red and blue cards
Step 2: Say “Touch red”
Step 3: Reinforce correct response

After multiple trials:

• Accuracy increases
• Prompts fade
• Independent responses occur

Data collected after each session shows measurable improvement.

How Data Is Used in Discrete Trial Training DTT

Each trial is recorded.

Therapists track:

• Correct responses
• Prompt levels
• Error patterns

Mastery criteria may be:

• 80–90% accuracy across sessions

Data ensures objectivity in discrete trial training DTT.

Is Discrete Trial Training DTT Always Table-Based?

Often, discrete trial training DTT is conducted at a table to reduce distractions.

However, trials can also occur in natural settings when structured properly.

Many programs combine:

• Table-based discrete trials
• Natural environment teaching

This supports skill generalization.

Research Supporting Discrete Trial Training DTT

ABA literature supports structured teaching models. Research shows that discrete trial training DTT improves language acquisition, cognitive skills, and task compliance when implemented consistently. Because it relies on reinforcement principles, it aligns with well-established behavioral science.

Advantages of Discrete Trial Training DTT

Clear structure

• Measurable outcomes
• Fast repetition
• Targeted skill instruction
• Reduced ambiguity

These characteristics make discrete trial training DTT especially useful for early learners.

Limitations and Considerations

While effective, discrete trial training DTT requires:

• Skilled implementation
• Individualized goal selection
• Generalization planning

Skills learned in structured trials must be practiced in real-life contexts.

Discrete Trial Training DTT vs Natural Teaching

Discrete trial training DTT:

• Highly structured
• Therapist-directed
• Repetitive trials

Natural teaching:

• Child-led
• Context-based
• Embedded in play

Many comprehensive ABA programs use both approaches.

How Parents Are Involved

Parents may observe sessions and learn how discrete trial training DTT works.

With guidance, parents can practice structured prompting and reinforcement at home.

Consistency strengthens learning.

Conclusion

Discrete trial training DTT is a foundational ABA method that teaches skills step by step through repetition and reinforcement. Research supports its effectiveness for building communication, academic, and daily living skills.

At Achieve Behavioral Therapy, our clinicians use discrete trial training DTT as part of individualized treatment plans tailored to each child’s needs.

If you want to learn how structured ABA methods can support your child’s learning, schedule a consultation with Achieve Behavioral Therapy today. Our clinical team will assess your child’s strengths and design a data-driven program focused on meaningful progress.

FAQs

Sources

• https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3592489/
• https://www.autismspeaks.org/expert-opinion/what-discrete-trial-training
• https://raisingchildren.net.au/autism/therapies-guide/discrete-trial-training
• https://ejournal.seaninstitute.or.id/index.php/healt/article/view/7320
• https://www.handscenter.com/exploring-discrete-trial-training-in-aba-therapy