Time Delay Instructional Procedure

Description of the Procedure

The time delay (TD) procedure is a systematic, predictable, rule-governed, instructional procedure that, when implemented correctly, can provide nearly errorless learning. Errors are minimized by ensuring that learners are not required to respond independently until they can do so accurately. The instructor teaches accurate responding by modeling the correct response and allowing the student to imitate the model. The procedure's nearly errorless learning features make it attractive and well suited for learners who struggle when acquiring certain types of skills and knowledge. The procedure is easy to implement and requires minimum instructor preparation and implementation time. Touchette first reported on the time delay procedure in 1971, when he used it to teach a form discrimination task to three students ...