A system of prompts along a gradient used to promote systematic use and removal of prompts is known as what?

• A. Prompt Hierarchy
• B. Stimulus Fading Procedures
• C. Behavioral Reduction
• D. Noncontingent Reinforcement

Answer: (A)

A prompt hierarchy is a structured system of prompts arranged along a gradient from most to least intrusive, designed to promote systematic use and gradual removal of prompts as a learner becomes more independent. This approach ensures prompts are available when needed but fade in a planned order, so the learner relies less on help over time and progress can be tracked reliably. In practice, you start with stronger prompts (like physical guidance) and progressively move to weaker prompts (such as verbal or gestural cues) until the skill is performed independently. This method helps prevent prompt dependency and supports consistent data on when mastery is reached. Other concepts involve changing the stimuli to control responses (stimulus fading), reducing unwanted behaviors (behavioral reduction), or providing reinforcement regardless of the response (noncontingent reinforcement), none of which capture the deliberate, gradient-based prompting sequence described here.