# Episode 2: Smart Learning Strategies & Performance CriteriaThis episode explores four studies that challenge conventional ABA teaching methods, from sight word instruction to theatrical memorization to individualized mastery criteria.Timestamps

• 00:00 - Cold Open
• 01:00 - Introduction
• 02:30 - Strategic Incremental Rehearsal with Word Lists
• 06:30 - SAFMEDS for Memorizing Scripts
• 10:00 - Twice-Exceptional Learners
• 13:00 - Individualized Mastery Criteria (MIEBL)
• 16:00 - Synthesis and Takeaways
• 18:30 - Outro

Articles DiscussedStudy 1: Lewis, T. K., Cariveau, T., Brown, A., Ellington, P., & Stocker, J. (2024). Efficacy of Strategic Incremental Rehearsal in a Word List. *Behavior Analysis in Practice*. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40617-024-00999-xStudy 2: Fragale, D., Ruiz, S., Newsome, K. B., Day-Watkins, J., & Verdun, V. (2024). Acting, Charting, and Fluency: Using a Modified SAFMEDS Procedure to Increase Recall in a Stage Actor and Non-Actor. *Behavior Analysis in Practice*. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40617-024-01038-5Study 3: Byrd, T. J., Glass, T. E., Desmet, O. A., & Olenchak, F. R. (2024). The Intersection of Giftedness, Disability, and Cultural Identity: A Case Study of a Young Asian American Boy. *Behavioral Sciences*, 15(8), 1036. https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15081036Study 4: Ramos, M. L. F. (2024). MIEBL: Measurement of Individualized, Evidence-Based Learning Criteria Designed for Discrete Trial Training. *Behavior Analysis in Practice*. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40617-025-01058-9Key Concepts

• Strategic Incremental Rehearsal (SIR): Teaching method that systematically increases set size as learners master smaller subsets of targets
• SAFMEDS: Say All Fast Minute Each Day Shuffled - a precision teaching method for building fluency
• Hear-Say vs See-Say: Different learning channels where learners either hear then repeat (auditory) or see then say (visual)
• Twice-Exceptional: Individuals who are both gifted and have disabilities
• MIEBL: Tool for selecting individualized mastery criteria based on probability theory

Key Takeaways

• Consider word lists instead of flashcards for sight word instruction - equally effective with better material management
• Try auditory learning channels (hear-say) for memorizing sequential verbal behavior like scripts or chains
• Standard ABA protocols may need significant modification for twice-exceptional learners with both giftedness and disabilities
• Challenge arbitrary mastery criteria (like 80% across 2 sessions) - individualized criteria based on confidence levels may be more appropriate
• Focus on building fluency (speed + accuracy) rather than just accuracy for better maintenance and generalization
• Simplify materials and methods when possible - practical approaches often work as well as complex ones

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The Behaviorist Bookclub is an AI-generated podcast produced by Mastering ABA. Always consult the original research for clinical decision-making.