Using Video Self-Modeling to Increase Assignment Completion within the School Setting

Video self-modeling (VSM) is a tool that utilizes the individual as a model for appropriate behavior, therefore teaching the individual that he or she is capable of completing a specific skill, behavior or task (Bellini & Akullian, 2007). Using the individual as the model increases motivation to change the behavior as the viewer can easily visualize themselves completing the action/skill (Hosford, 1980; Mason, Davis, Ayres, Davis, & Mason, 2016). The VSM process is achieved through careful editing of videos. A researcher is able to take videos of a student repeatedly attempting a task and then edit the videos to compile one short video of the appropriate situational behavior. The final video will show the student how to respond appropriately to the task. VSM is a well-known intervention for children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (Bellini & Akullian, 2007). However, researchers have shown that VSM is also an effective intervention for the following diagnoses or actions: reducing public speaking anxiety, reducing phobias, decreasing depression, increasing positively viewed behavior, and decreasing disruptive behavior (Madaus & Ruberto, 2012).