Comparing traditional match-to-sample training with observational learning to establish equivalence classes with adults

The purpose of the current study was to compare the efficacy and efficiency of video-based observational learning (OL) with traditional match-to-sample (MTS) training to establish three 3-member equivalence classes of abstract visual stimuli with adult participants. Video models used during OL depicted a first-person perspective of a computer screen with modeled on-screen movements of a mouse cursor making comparison selections. Adult participants in the OL-mixed group received training in which the video models depicted progressive increases in correct responding of modeled baseline relations across five blocks of trials. Participants in the OL-expert group received identical training except that the models always depicted 100% correct responding across the five modeled trial blocks. Participants in the MTS group actively responded while completing five blocks of traditional MTS training. Posttest results showed that OL-mixed training resulted in the highest mean percentage of class-consistent responding and yield of equivalence classes relative to traditional MTS and the OL-expert group despite minimal differences in total duration during training. Across the groups, nearly all who successfully demonstrated equivalence class formation during the computerized posttest also showed generalization of class-consistent responding during the card sorting posttest. The results showed that OL-mixed training was most effective and that the procedures were similarly efficient.