rbt C.4 Naturalistic Teaching (NET)

By RBThub February 23, 2026

Imagine learning French by staring at flashcards in a classroom. Now, imagine learning French by walking into a bakery in Paris and asking for a croissant because you are hungry. Which one sticks better?

Naturalistic Teaching (NET) is the "Paris Bakery" method. Instead of sitting at a table (DTT), we follow the client's motivation. We teach them to ask for things they actually want, right when they want them.

Executive Summary

This video introduces Naturalistic Teaching Procedures (NET). Unlike DTT, which uses "arbitrary" reinforcers (like candy for touching a nose), NET uses "functional" reinforcers (getting the toy because you asked for it). We explore two main types: Incidental Teaching (purely following the learner) and Pivotal Response Training (PRT) (structured opportunities within play).

⏱️ Video Timeline

00:00
What is NET?
Integrating learning into the natural environment (play, mealtime). The reinforcement is embedded in the activity.
00:29
Functional Reinforcers
Example: If the client asks for a fork, the reward is getting the fork to eat their salad. The reward matches the request.
01:23
Incidental vs. PRT
Incidental: Spontaneous. Following the client's lead entirely.
PRT: A bit more structured. Repeating trials within a natural play setting.

🔑 Key Insights

Motivation is Key: NET does not work if the learner isn't motivated. You must wait for them to want something.
Loose Structure: The instruction (SD) might look different every time. This helps with Generalization.
Immediate Reinforcement: Because the reinforcer is the item itself, the connection is instant and logical.
Real World Ready: Skills learned in NET transfer to the real world faster than skills learned in DTT.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use NET for everything?
A: It is best for Communication and Social Skills. It is harder to use for academic skills like math worksheets.
Q: What is the difference between DTT and NET?
A: DTT = Teacher Controlled, Artificial Reward.
NET = Student Controlled, Natural Reward.

1. DTT vs. NET (The Showdown)

Understanding the difference between these two is the #1 requirement for the RBT exam.
DTT (Table) Teacher Leads "Touch Car" ↓ Get Candy (Unrelated Reward) NET (Play) Learner Leads "I want Car!" ↓ Get Car (Functional Reward)

2. Incidental Teaching

Definition: Structuring and manipulating the environment to elicit a response, but waiting for the learner to initiate interest.
Example

You put the client's favorite toy up on a high shelf where they can see it but can't reach it.
You wait.
The client points and whines.
You teach: "Say 'Toy please!'"
This captures the moment of highest motivation.

📝 Knowledge Check

Test your understanding.

Q1: In Naturalistic Teaching, who initiates the learning opportunity?

Answer: The Learner.
NET relies on the learner showing interest (motivation) first. The RBT then captures that moment.

Q2: A child asks for juice. You give them a sticker. Is this Naturalistic Teaching?

Answer: No.
In NET, the reinforcer must be functionally related. If they ask for juice, the reinforcer must be juice.
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Acquisition Quiz

Mock Exam

Test your knowledge on NET, Incidental Teaching, and Motivation.

Start Practice Test

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