| The main purpose of this investigation was to assess time-setting generalization of mentally retarded individuals' acquired complex behavior. Specifically, the ability of three moderately mentally retarded adults to prepare complex meals in their own apartments, during and after a partial-sequential withdrawal of training components and trainers, was examined. First, however, redundant color cues were used in combination with massed trial training outside the operant chain to increase the probability that one subject would independently set a timer, and the temperature control dials on her stove. Next, a partial-sequential withdrawal of training package components and trainers across the baselines of the three subjects was undertaken.;The results indicate the use of redundant color cues and massed-trial training increased dramatically the ability of the one subject to independently set the timer and temperature controls. Direct observation data and subjective evaluations from the subjects, their roommates, and trainers, generally indicated that the meals were prepared successfully after the withdrawal of training components and trainers. Throughout the 12 months of this investigation, the meals the first subject prepared were all satisfactory. Except for two meals prepared after trainers withdrew from the apartment, the meals the second subject prepared were also satisfactory. Even though most of the meals prepared by the third subject were satisfactory, two meals following the partial withdrawal of training components, and four meals after the withdrawal of trainers were unsatisfactory. Additionally, during the eleventh or twelfth month of the investigation, the three subjects prepared satisfactory meals without using the sequenced picture recipe cards. |
