Behavior Analysis

Programme Structure

Coursework

SPED/SCHP 402 Applied Behavior Analysis: This course provides students with an introduction to the science of human behavior, with a focus on the theory and application of applied behavior analysis strategies for improving behavior in school, home, and community settings. Students will learn basic principles and procedures of applied behavior analysis, ways to identify factors that contribute to behavior difficulties, and intervention strategies that can be used to minimize problems, improve performance, teach new behaviors, and increase the likelihood of desired behaviors. Specific topics include: definition and measurement of behavior; functional behavior assessment; single-subject research design; methods of increasing and decreasing behavior; discrimination, generalization, and maintenance; and ethical considerations.

SPED 409 Classroom Environment and Management: Designing inclusive classroom environments that maximize learning. Emphasis on fostering a community of learners using connections among classroom arrangement, classroom management, and cognitive development to create positive learning outcomes for all students, including ELL learners and students with disabilities. Addresses the tiered model of prevention and positive behavior support, including the role of functional assessment and individual positive behavior support plans in classroom management. Highlights the ways a positive climate for learning involves establishing and maintaining partnerships with families.

SPED 410 Behavior Analysts: Ethics and Professional Conduct: This course is designed to provide students an in-depth review of the BACB Professional and Ethics Compliance Code for Behavior Analysts and other relevant content and readings that further support student understanding of the topic area. Class discussions, review of case studies, and student-lead small group problem-solving activities will enable students to apply ethical and professional standards to their work, further promoting quality interactions between the children and adults they serve, families, teachers, and others stakeholders. 

SPED 416 Autism Spectrum Disorders and Evidence-Based Practices: This course provides an overview of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and an introduction to evidence based practices (EBPs) for practitioners, based on current research. Assignments focus on the use of EBPs, grounded in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). Emphasis is placed on intervention evaluation and implementation in addition to providing family supports.

SPED 418 Alternative Curricular Approaches 3 CreditsCurricular and instructional methods for students with pervasive support needs (e.g., intellectual disabilities, autism) who follow an alternative or modified curriculum. Methods for developing an individualized curriculum, embedding instruction and accessing the general education curriculum, systematic instruction, and instruction for full participation in school, home, and community settings are covered. Strategies for facilitating emergent social and communication skills, teaching augmentative and alternative communication, and use of assistive technologies to enhance self-directed learning are included.

SPED 432 Positive Behavior Support: Design of comprehensive, multi-component behavior support plans for individuals with a variety of disabilities who engage in problem behavior. Topics include functional assessment, antecedent and setting event interventions, replacement behaviors, consequence and crisis procedures, lifestyle interventions, and teaming strategies. Assessment focuses on the link between curriculum, academic performance, and behavior problems. Promotes consideration of diverse populations for understanding behavioral differences. Describes strategies for ongoing monitoring and maintenance of behavior reductions.

EDUC 461 Single-Subject Research Design: This course provides students with knowledge in the theory underlying single-subject research design and the application of single-case research methodology to produce behavior change.  The course focuses on empirical methods for answering applied research questions in school, home, and community settings.  Students will learn basic principles and procedures of single-case research, underlying logic of the research designs, and single-case data analysis methods. Specific topics include: historical perspectives; measurement; social validity and procedural fidelity; replication and generality; visual and statistical analysis; single-subject research designs; and ethical considerations.