Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
This course covers basic concepts, principles, and technical terminology of the science of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). It serves as the foundation that the other core courses in the ABA program are built upon.
An examination of professional and ethical behavior in the delivery of applied behavior analysis services. The course will focus on the Behavior Analyst Certification Board’s (BACB) Professional and Ethical Compliance Code for Behavior Analysts.
An examination of the research methods used in Applied Behavior Analysis. Specific focus will be placed on single-subject design, defining and measuring behavior, assessing interobserver agreement, experimental design, and data analysis.
This course introduces the experimental analysis of behavior, a natural science approach to the study of environment-behavior relations and the foundation for applied behavior analysis. Topics discussed include respondent and operant conditioning, schedules of reinforcement, stimulus control, choice, correspondence relations, verbal behavior and the experimental procedures used to study them.
Prerequisite(s): Either both admission to the ABA or School Psychology graduate programs, and a B- or better in ABA500, or else permission of the program director.
This course introduces students to radical behaviorism as the philosophical foundation of behavior analysis and the implications of that philosophy for research and practice. Topics addressed will include a radical behavioral perspective of complex topics related to human learning including the mind, thinking, creativity, problem solving, and cultural practices.
Prerequisite(s): Either both admission to the ABA or School Psychology graduate programs, and a B- or better in ABA500, or else permission of the program director.
An advanced seminar in Applied Behavior Analysis that will focus upon the development of behavior change programs that will promote lasting changes in client behavior. Focus will be on factors that promote generalization of treatment effects and best practices in training caregivers to effectively implement behavior change programs.
An examination of assessment methods used in applied behavior analysis. Focus will be placed on functional behavior assessment, preference and reinforcer assessment, and skills assessment. Special emphasis will be placed on functional analysis methodology.
An examination of the fundamentals of behavior change in applied settings. Focus will be placed on procedures to teach adaptive behavior, decrease problem behavior, and promote generalization and maintenance of behavior change.
This advanced seminar explores behavior change procedures related to Organizational Behavior Management (OBM). The course introduces OBM through the application of behavior-analytic principles of performance assessment, measurement, supervision, management, leadership, staff training, and behavior change procedures in organizational settings. Weekly readings and hands-on activities support a class project in which students work with members of an organization (usually self-reliant adults) to identify ethical behavior change goals and interventions, in consideration of cultural factors and other variables that may affect performance or workplace enjoyment. The course provides students with real-world experience working within a system to achieve behavior change and outcomes that an organization values and benefits from—regardless of the type of organization or the products/services it produces.
An introduction to Skinner’s (1957) analysis of verbal behavior. Students will learn the theoretical and conceptual foundations of verbal behavior and procedures for assessing and teaching verbal operants.
Prerequisite(s): ABA504.
An examination of behavioral interventions (ABA) for individuals with autism across the life span. Course content will focus on early intensive behavioral intervention; interventions that address motor, academic, social, and language skills; assessment of interventions; and vocational training for adults with autism.
Prerequisite(s): ABA511.
An advanced seminar in applied behavior analysis that will focus on the concepts, principles, and applications of stimulus control. Students will acquire a thorough understanding of stimulus control and learn how to design interventions based on stimulus control.
Exploration of selected areas of applied behavior analysis not covered in the regular curriculum. The course may be repeated when different topics are offered.
Students will gain applied experience under the supervision of a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). Experience hours will be accrued according to the experience standards set forth by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB). Students are responsible for arranging their own experience and supervisor arrangements. In-class time will focus on discussion of applied experiences and completion of assignments.
Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor.
Students will gain applied experience under the supervision of a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). Experience hours will be accrued according to the experience standards set forth by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB). Students are responsible for arranging their own experience and supervisor arrangements. In-class time will focus on discussion of applied experiences and completion of assignments.
Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor.
Students work under the supervision of a faculty member to develop and conduct a research project. Course is offered on application.
Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor.