E-steps: Evaluation of an instructional sequence for persons with impaired memory and executive functions

Individuals with memory and executive function impairments resulting from acquired brain injury experience difficulty learning and implementing new concepts or procedures critical for pursuing activities of daily living. The purpose of this study was to develop and evaluate a “best practice” instructional package (E-Steps) that facilitates learning and retention of multi-step procedures for this population. A multiple baseline across participants design was used to examine the functional relationship between the E-Steps instructional package and the number of correct e-mail steps learned. Treatment effects were replicated across four participants and maintained at 30 days post-treatment. Generalization and social validity data further supported the treatment program. Directions for future research include application of the instructional package to commercially available e-mail programs and other multi-step procedures.