What is 'Backward Chaining' in teaching behaviors?

Backward chaining is a teaching strategy that focuses on beginning instruction with the final step of a task and then sequentially retracing the steps toward the beginning. This method is particularly effective for tasks that have a clear endpoint, as it allows the learner to experience the satisfaction of completing the task quickly.

By starting with the final step, learners can see immediate success, which can motivate and encourage them to master the preceding steps. For example, if the goal is to teach someone how to make a sandwich, the instructor would first demonstrate the completed sandwich, then have the learner practice placing the top slice of bread on the completed sandwich, and gradually work backward through the steps of assembling the sandwich until the first step of gathering ingredients is reached.

This approach contrasts with other methods, such as teaching from the first step to the last, which might lead to frustration if learners struggle with initial steps without experiencing the immediate reward of completing the entire task. Additionally, visual aids are not a defining characteristic of backward chaining, nor is it a method focused on spontaneous behavior reinforcement; rather, it is a structured approach that provides clarity and builds confidence through successful task completion.