Presession pairing is a well-documented behaviour analytic practice that supports the development of a positive instructional environment and is associated with reduced rates of challenging behaviour among children with developmental disabilities. However, there is limited research evaluating the impact of presession pairing on children's skill acquisition rates. Therefore, in the current study, four behavioural therapists were systematically trained in an established presession pairing protocol and using a multiple baseline across participants design, the impact of this training on life skill acquisition rates among a group of four children with Autism Spectrum Disorder was evaluated. A robust improvement rate difference was calculated for each child and a robust omnibus improvement rate difference showed that the impact of training therapists in the presession pairing protocol had a very small effect on the children's life skill acquisition rates. These findings were discussed in the context of the importance of reporting null findings and designing replication studies that provide an understanding of why an effect was not demonstrated, in order to develop and refine clinical practice.

BackgroundJoint training of clinicians working in overlapping care areas can be a powerful way to help develop cross-professional insights and knowledge, and stimulate shared reflection and development. This poster describes a novel educational evening, which saw GP trainees and South Central Ambulance Service (SCAS) staff coming together to learn and reflect through case-based discussion.AimThe aim of the educational evening was to enable participants to engage in shared learning activities using facilitated case scenarios based on common cases. Evaluation of the session highlighted in particular different approaches to risk management and uncertainty.MethodForty-seven (25 SCAS staff/22 GPs) participants attended the evening and worked in mixed SCAS/GP groups, which were facilitated by educators drawn from general practice and paramedic education. All participants completed pre-session information sheets and post-session evaluations.ResultsParticipants valued the evening and reported broadened knowledge and insight about the clinical work of the other group, including the nature of work and differences in care management practice. Participants reported that the case-based scenarios were relevant.ConclusionThe event helped participants to better understand each other’s roles gain and to learn together. The educational evening demonstrated that shared leaning can be powerful and generate insights for trainees and SCAS clinicians. Participants also made suggestions as to how the event might be developed for the future.