Families often hear the terms Discrete Trial Training (DTT) and Natural Environment Teaching (NET) and wonder how they’re different. Both are widely used in ABA therapy, but they feel very different in practice.
Below is a clear, side-by-side look at the key differences between DTT and NET, without the extra fluff.
How DTT and NET differ in ABA therapy
The main difference between DTT and NET is how and where learning happens. DTT is structured and adult-led. NET is flexible and child-led. That difference affects everything from setting to motivation to how skills are used.
Structure and teaching style
- Discrete Trial Training is highly structured. The therapist gives a clear instruction, waits for a response, and provides immediate feedback.
- Natural Environment Teaching is flexible. Teaching moments are embedded into play, routines, and daily activities.
Learning environment
- DTT usually takes place in a controlled setting, like a table or quiet work area.
- NET happens in natural settings such as the home, classroom, playground, or community.
Who leads the interaction
- DTT is therapist-led. The adult decides what skill is being taught and when.
- NET is child-led. The therapist follows the child’s interests to create learning opportunities.
Motivation and reinforcement
- DTT often uses planned reinforcement, such as tokens, praise, or preferred items.
- NET relies on natural reinforcement, meaning the child gets what they’re asking for or working toward in real life.
Skill generalization
- DTT is effective for building new or foundational skills, but those skills may need extra practice to generalize.
- NET naturally promotes generalization because skills are taught in real-world contexts.
Data collection
- DTT allows for very precise data collection since each trial is clearly defined.
- NET data is more flexible and focuses on how often and how independently skills occur during natural activities.
Why both approaches are used
The differences between DTT and NET explain why most ABA programs use both. DTT helps teach skills clearly and efficiently. NET helps children use those skills naturally in everyday life. Together, they create balanced, functional learning.
How Little Champs ABA applies both approaches
At Little Champs ABA, we choose teaching strategies based on what each child needs most in that moment. We support families across Colorado and Utah by blending structured and natural approaches to maximize progress.
Our ABA services include:
- ABA therapy at home
- ABA therapy in school
- ABA therapy in daycare
- ABA therapy for teenagers
- Telehealth ABA
If you’d like help understanding which approach fits your child best, contact us today and let’s build strategies that support real-world learning.
FAQs
What is the main difference between DTT and NET?
The main difference is structure. DTT is highly structured and adult-led, while NET is flexible and based on natural, child-led interactions.
Is DTT or NET better for learning?
Neither is better overall. DTT is often used for teaching new or complex skills, while NET helps children use skills naturally in daily life.
Where does Discrete Trial Training usually take place?
DTT typically occurs in a controlled setting, such as at a table or designated learning area, to reduce distractions.
Where does Natural Environment Teaching happen?
NET takes place in everyday environments like the home, classroom, playground, or community during real-life activities.
Can a child receive both DTT and NET?
Yes. Most ABA programs combine both approaches to support skill development and real-world application.
Sources:
- https://www.autismspeaks.org/expert-opinion/what-discrete-trial-training
- https://iidc.indiana.edu/irca/articles/discrete-trial-teaching-what-is-it.html
- https://www.nu.edu/blog/what-is-natural-environment-teaching/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38917993/
- https://online.regiscollege.edu/blog/aba-therapy-examples