What is a primary goal of motor imitation training?

The primary goal of motor imitation training is to develop a generalized repertoire of imitation. This skill is essential as it serves as a foundational behavior that can facilitate learning in various domains. By encouraging individuals to imitate a wide range of motor actions, they can strengthen their ability to replicate behaviors in different contexts. This generalization of imitation across various situations is crucial because it supports the acquisition of other skills, both social and academic, fostering better overall communication and learning experiences.

In contrast, while improving listening skills and increasing the use of echoics may be valuable objectives in some training programs, they are not the primary focus of motor imitation training. Additionally, encouraging vocal speech is more aligned with programs targeting verbal operators rather than motor imitation, which specifically emphasizes physical actions.