Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a set of skills used in the assessment and treatment of individuals with a variety of behavioral problems and developmental delays, including autism spectrum disorders. Students in this course will explore the concepts and principles of applied behavior analysis. They also examine the concepts and principles of behaviorism to the application of behavioral principles in the context of applied behavior analysis, including behavioral observation and measurement, functions of behavior, developing and maintaining behaviors, and related ethical considerations. Students explore the impact of promoting positive social change through the application of ABA.This course covers tasks from the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) Task List (5th ed.) and includes knowledge and skills foundational for the BCBA examination. The course is part of a Verified Course Sequence (VCS) verified by the Association for Behavior Analysis International as meeting specific coursework requirements, content hours, and faculty standards and meets coursework eligibility criteria for BCBA Eligibility Pathway 2 coursework requirements as part of the application for Behavior Analyst Certification Board, Inc.® (BACB®) examinations.

With a focus on the Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts issued by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board, Inc.® (BACB®), students in this course review responsible conduct of behavior analysts, ethical responsibilities to clients and their welfare, and ethical responsibilities to other individuals (e.g., colleagues) and the BACB®. In addition, students examine professional and legal issues involved in providing services in different contexts and with different client groups.This course covers tasks from the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) Task List (5th ed.) and includes knowledge and skills foundational for the BCBA examination. The course is part of a Verified Course Sequence (VCS) verified by the Association for Behavior Analysis International as meeting specific coursework requirements, content hours, and faculty standards and meets coursework eligibility criteria for BCBA Eligibility Pathway 2 coursework requirements as part of the application for Behavior Analyst Certification Board, Inc.® (BACB®) examinations.

Prerequisites

• PSYC 6731

With a focus on the Behavior Analyst Certification Board's (BACB's) Fourth Edition Task List, this 45 instructional hour course covers the basic principles of behavioral assessment and applied behavior analysis. Course participants will explore fundamental techniques leading to the implementation of behavioral procedures and behavioral programs. More specifically, instruction focuses on conducting functional assessments and functional analyses; developing intervention procedures based on the outcome of these assessments and analyses; implementing these procedures; and data-based decision-making.

Prerequisites

• PSYC 6731
• PSYC 6733

This course covers a variety of methods for data collection, measurement data collection, data analysis, and experimental designs that are common to applied behavior analysis. In addition to the theoretical background for single subject research, this course will also emphasize practical applications of research methods from baseline measurement to treatment evaluation. Advantages and limitations of various single subject research methods will be examined. Students will also design a small-n research study based on a research question developed from the applied behavior analysis literature. In addition, they will critically evaluate research studies for the appropriate research design and methodology.

Prerequisites

• PSYC 6731
• PSYC 6733
• PSYC 6734

This course will extend students' knowledge of operationalizing behavior, behavioral assessment, developing interventions, functional analysis/assessment, and social validity concerns through the utilization of applied behavior analysis methodologies. Emphasis will be placed on the relationship between valid assessment data and socially relevant interventions. Students will also examine case management skills and supervision strategies.

Prerequisites

• PSYC 6731
• PSYC 6733
• PSYC 6734
• PSYC 6735

Students in this course explore the cultural components, research, and theory of cross-cultural psychology. In addition to the previously listed goals, students focus on the impact that culture has on the field of psychology around the world. The scope of this course is broad, with the core theme being cross-cultural psychology (focusing on cultures representing different parts of the world) and comparing cultural influence on human psychology. Many of the topics addressed are related to human development. Additionally, interactions among culture and social behaviors, health, mental health, and mental illnesses are emphasized throughout the duration of this course.

This course covers two separate but related topics within applied behavior analysis (ABA): personnel supervision and management and autism spectrum disorder (ASD).  Personnel supervision and management includes case management, supervision goals and procedures, function-based supervision, and evaluation. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder with widely varying symptomatology and represents one of the primary client groups for whom behavior analysts provide services. Students examine ASD theory, research, and history as well as diagnostic issues and interventions for the treatment of autism.This course covers tasks from the Board Certified Behavior Analyst® (BCBA®) Task List (5th ed.) and includes knowledge and skills foundational for the BCBA examination. The course is part of a Verified Course Sequence (VCS) verified by the Association for Behavior Analysis International as meeting specific coursework requirements, content hours, and faculty standards and meets coursework eligibility criteria for BCBA Eligibility Pathway 2 coursework requirements as part of the application for Behavior Analyst Certification Board, Inc.® (BACB®) examinations.

Prerequisites

• PSYC 6717
• PSYC 6731

Students are provided with the opportunity to synthesize knowledge and skills acquired throughout their program into a practical project designed to promote positive social change in a capstone project. During this course, students work on a capstone project in which they complete a major integrative paper on a topic related to their specialization, incorporating theoretical and practical knowledge as well as social scientific research skills acquired throughout the program. The instructor may approve other capstone projects presented by students.