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Revolutionizing DTT with Technology with Patrick Faga of FirstWork
November 20, 2024 · 49 min

In this episode of In the Field: The ABA Podcast, I chat with Patrick Faga, behavior scientist and co-founder of FirstWork, about how technology is transforming discrete trial training (DTT) and behavior analysis. Patrick shares how his experiences as a behavior technician inspired the creation of FirstWork, a direct lesson delivery platform designed to simplify DTT while maintaining its core flexibility and personalization.

Key Topics:

What is FirstWork? Patrick explains how FirstWork streamlines DTT by digitizing lesson delivery, eliminating the need for physical flashcards, and integrating reinforcement systems within a tablet-based platform.Balancing Tech and Human Connection: Patrick discusses how technology like FirstWork enhances the teacher or technician’s ability to connect with learners by removing time-consuming manual tasks.Affordances and Constraints of Technology: Learn about the unique advantages FirstWork offers, such as real-time feedback and customizable programs, as well as thoughtful consideration of its limitations and learner fit.Improving DTT Outcomes: How FirstWork leverages concept formation, critical and variable features, and automated data collection to promote generalization and support goal achievement.Impact on Teams and Organizations: Patrick dives into how FirstWork benefits ABA teams by saving time, reducing costs, and improving the consistency of lesson delivery, making it a game-changer for both practitioners and learners.

Key Takeaways:

Technology doesn’t replace teachers or technicians—it enhances their ability to focus on the learner by automating repetitive tasks.DTT, often misunderstood as overly rigid, becomes more dynamic and engaging when integrated with tools like FirstWork.FirstWork’s customizable features ensure lessons are tailored to each learner, while the platform's reinforcement system motivates participation and strengthens autonomy.

Keywords: Discrete Trial Training, ABA, Behavior Analysis, Technology in ABA, DTT Platforms, Reinforcement Systems, Behavior Technician Tools, Concept Formation, Generalization, Patrick Faga, FirstWork

Connect with Patrick and FirstWork:

Website: FirstWorkEmail: info@firstworkapp.comFirstWork LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/firstworkapp/Patrick Faga LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrickfagaInstagram: @firstworkapp

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