What is the main characteristic of backward chaining in teaching?

The main characteristic of backward chaining in teaching is that it begins with the target task and works back to prerequisite skills. This approach focuses on teaching the final step of a task first, allowing the learner to experience success right away, which can be motivating. By starting with the end goal, educators can help students learn the entire task in manageable segments, gradually introducing the preceding steps.

This method can be particularly effective for students with mild to moderate disabilities, as it allows them to grasp the completion of the task before they learn the earlier components. This success can strengthen their confidence and reinforce their understanding as they work backward through each prerequisite skill necessary for task completion. The backward chaining technique aligns well with principles of task analysis, ensuring that learners can build a solid understanding of a task from its conclusion to its beginning.