Applied Behavior Analysis Certificate

SPED 540. Concepts and Principles in Behavior Analysis. 3 Credits.

This course introduces definitions, characteristics, principles, processes and concepts of Applied Behavior Analysis. In addition, the philosophical assumptions and dimensions of the science of applied behavior analysis, including determinism, empiricism, parsimony, selectionism, pragmatism, and lawfulness of behavior will be addressed. Students will learn to differentiate between environmental and mentalistic explanations of behavior, and between conceptual, experimental, and applied analyses of behavior. F,S,SS.

SPED 542. Ethical and Professional Conduct for Behavior Analysts. 3 Credits.

This course introduces ethical and professional considerations relevant in the professional practice of applied behavior analysis as well as the ethical and disciplinary standards of the profession. Students will become familiar with the ethical and professional conduct and legal issues relevant to Board Certified Behavior Analyst-level practitioners, as well as the professional conduct consistent with the practice of applied behavior analysis. F,S,SS.

SPED 545. Assessment and Behavior Change Systems. 4 Credits.

This course will address the process of identifying behaviors targeted for change and the use of behavioral assessment techniques to identify and analyze behavior-environment relations for the purpose of developing successful, functionally-based intervention strategies. Students will learn a variety of methods for behavior assessment, interventions, analysis of interventions, experimental analysis, and interpreting outcomes including the use of practical behaviorally-based assessment tools such as checklists, rating scales, structured observation tools, and curricular assessments. F,S,SS.

SPED 541. Methods and Applications in Behavior Analysis. 3 Credits.

This course addresses behaviorally-based strategies to establish, strengthen, and weaken target behaviors. Fundamental elements of behavior change are reviewed, with a focus on selecting evidence-based tactics that utilize basic principles of behavior (reinforcement, punishment, extinction, and stimulus control), as well as utilizing appropriate parameters and schedules of reinforcement and punishment. Various procedures combining fundamental behavior principles are reviewed, modeled, practiced, and demonstrated to mastery and fluency. F,S,SS.

SPED 544. Research Methods in Behavior Analysis. 3 Credits.

This course focuses on the measurement of behavior and the analysis of intervention effect using single-subject experimental design. Procedures for collection and display of behavioral data are demonstrated, practiced, and examined for reliability, validity, efficiency, and relevance to a variety of settings, with a focus on educational environments. Individualized measurement procedures are developed and implemented using a variety of single-subject design formats, and the contribution of single-subject research design to education, clinical practice, and scientific inquiry is examined. Ethical considerations of experimental analysis are examined. F,S,SS.

SPED 543. Applied Behavior Analysis Supervision Across Settings and Populations. 3 Credits.

This course will focus on client-centered responsibilities across settings, including identification of the problem and selection and implementation of interventions based on biological, medical, and environmental variables. The course will also address management of behavioral services and supervision of those responsible for carrying out behavior change procedures. F,S,SS.