What is the purpose of most to least prompting?

The purpose of most to least prompting is to sequence prompts from most intrusive to least intrusive, which allows for gradual independence in the learner. This method starts with a strong level of support, often using direct instructions or physical assistance, to ensure the learner successfully engages in the desired behavior or task. As the learner begins to demonstrate proficiency, the level of assistance is gradually reduced. This approach is effective because it helps build confidence and skill, while also allowing the individual to learn through increased autonomy.

In contrast, providing no prompts at all would not support learning, especially for individuals who may need varying levels of guidance. Starting with the least intrusive prompts could lead to confusion or frustration if the learner is not yet ready for such a level of independence, which is why this method emphasizes starting with the most supportive prompts. Immediate feedback after every prompt, although valuable in a learning process, does not directly address the systematic adjustment of support levels associated with prompting, which is what most to least prompting specifically entails.