The plan for generalization involves what?

• A. Using only a single exemplar during training.
• B. Incorporating multiple exemplars and moving to natural environments after initial training.
• C. Avoiding generalization to prevent errors.
• D. Generalization is unrelated to the training plan.

Answer: (B)

Generalization plans aim to have a learned skill occur in many different situations, with different cues, and with different people—not just in the exact training moment. The best approach is to use multiple exemplars during training and then move the learner into natural environments after initial mastery. By practicing with varied stimuli that all signal the same response, the learner learns the underlying relation rather than memorizing one exact cue. Transitioning to natural settings helps the behavior become functional and durable in everyday life, increasing the likelihood it will be used outside the teaching context.

Training with only a single exemplar would keep the skill tied to that specific cue and likely fail to transfer to new contexts. Avoiding generalization would defeat the purpose of learning, since the goal is for the skill to appear in real life. And saying generalization isn’t related to the training plan is simply not accurate—the plan is built specifically to promote generalization.