Comparison of Methods for Demonstrating Passage of Time when Using Computer-Based Video Prompting

Two different video-based procedures for presenting the passage of time (how long a step lasts) were examined. The two procedures were presented within the framework of video prompting to promote independent multi-step task completion across four young adults with moderate intellectual disability. The two procedures demonstrating passage of the designated amount of time were: a) visual disappearance (counting down) of time on a color coded Time Timer while the video played and; b) a close-up view of the target step (e.g., substance boiling) while the video played. An adapted alternating treatments design, combined with a multiple probe across behaviors design with baseline, comparison, and final treatment conditions was used to compare the two procedures across three sets of tasks. Results indicate that gains were made by each participant when using both video procedures and that both procedures were equally effective in promoting completion of task steps requiring the passage of time.