How to write Contextually Mediated Objectives

What is a contextually mediated objective?
Context: 2. The set of circumstances or facts that surround a particular even, situation, etc.

http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/Context;

Mediated: 2. To bring about (an agreement, accord, truce, peace, etc.) as an intermediary between parties by compromise, reconciliation, removal of misunderstanding, etc.
http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/Mediated;

A contextually mediated objective will address needs within the every day activities of a child, within the child’s natural environment. It will contain all of the essentials previously discussed about quality measurable behavioral objectives.

The best contextually mediated objectives will use natural reinforcers.

http://bestoutcomes.blogspot.com/2009/03/reinforcement.html

Examples of contextually mediated objectives:

1) While taking a shower in the morning, Susie will apply shampoo and scrub her hair without assistance or prompt 4 out of seven days for two consecutive weeks.

Note: This may be written as is, or in some cases where more information is required as is often the case, may require further information regarding how Susie will apply the shampoo, how much shampoo is required and an operational definition of “scrub her hair.” This additional information can be included in the plan under operational definitions with a reference right under the objective to see applicable operational definitions and where they can be found.

2) Immediately (within 10 minutes) upon placing his bowl in the sink, after breakfast, Don will fill (will have completed filling) the dog dish (within one inch of the top) with dog food, with one or less prompt 5 out of seven days for three consecutive weeks.

This assumes Don knows where the dish and dog food are and that he is capable of doing this chore. If he is not, the objective would need to address more basic and detailed skills, such as walking to the hall closet, opening the door, retrieving the bag of dog food, etc. Note: short operational definitions are included within this objective.

Please see and read: Working with Families of Young Children with Special Needs Chapter 3 Community-Based Everyday Child Learning Opportunities



Additional Supplemental Material:

The Effectiveness of Contextually Supported Play Date Interactions Between Children With Autism and Typically Developing Peers