ABA Methods & Principles

Applied Behavior Analysis Methods and Principles

A Teacher's Guide by Colleen Pauley

References

Applications

ABA Methods

ABA Principles

Introduction

index

The effective implementation of applied behavior analysis can serve as a guiding light for educators. Teachers have the ability to inspire, uplift, and ignite the potential within each student with autism. This guide can serve as a compass that can support teachers as they navigate the path toward creating classrooms that thrive on positive behavior, growth, and individual success. Embracing the principles of applied behavior analysis as beacons that foster an environment where every student’s unique abilities can shine. Implementing these methods with fidelity will not only impact behavior, but will unlock doors to growth and possibilities for students. The impact of education can transcend the boundaries of the classroom walls.

introduction

Core Principles of Applied Behavior Analysis

Appropriate behavior needs reinforcement to increase the likelihood of reoccurring.

Behavior Modification

Utilizing positive reinforcement produces more effective behavior changes compared to using negative reinforcement.

Positive Reinforcement

Behaviors can be maintained or diminished based on the consequences presented.

Consequences

Behaviors are impacted by their environment.

Environment

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Applying Key ABA Methods in the Classroom

This guide includes some key methods to use in the classroom.

There are several methods that a teacher could implement in order to support a student with autism in learning appropriate behavior.

Methods

The data obtained from a functional behavior assessment can inform the development of interventions geared towards assisting the student in attaining the desired or target behavior.

When faced with difficult behavior in the classroom, an appropriate initial step is to conduct a functional behavior assessment. This process involves direct observation, data collection, and creating a hypothesis statement.

Determine the Purpose

The goals must include observable behaviors that are measurable. Example: The student will allow themselves to feel angry or frustrated without engaging in injurious behavior (of self or others) in 90% of opportunities, measured daily, by the end of the IEP cycle.

Once the purpose of the behavior has been determined, an intervention plan can be developed. Once the individualized plan is developed, the efficacy should be examined. The plan should be adjusted as necessary.

Intervention Plan

Data collection should occur consistently. There are many tools to simplify this process.

Data Collection

Since positive reinforcement has been shown to elicit the target behavior more effectively, focus the plan on positive reinforcement. Think about what will motivate your student with autism to demonstrate the target behavior.

Part of the intervention plan should include positive reinforcement for the student. This should be individualized for each student.

Reinforcement

a type of "timeout", used with younger children

child centered, learning through play

prompt, response, consequence, trial interval

focuses on pivotal areas of development

Discrete Trial Teaching

There are many tools a teacher can use to facilitate the progress of students with autism towards achieving the target behavior. Take a look at some common evidence-based strategies.

Strategies

Naturalistic Teaching

Pivotal Response Treatment

Contingent Observation

Application

When implemented properly, research has shown that ABA is an effective way to modify behavior.

The methods and principles of ABA should be implemented to support students with autism who demonstrate behavioral deficits.

Application

Each member of the student's team should be aware of their behavior plan and the proper way to implement the interventions. Consistency is a key component to the success of applied behavior analysis.

Application

Do not take the behavioral needs of students with autism personally. Remember it is an opportunity to help the student learn and grow. There are many other ABA methods and strategies that have been shown to be successful. The plan for supporting students with autism who demonstrate behavioral deficits should be as unique as the individuals themselves!

Application

References

References

Positive reinforcement produces socially significant behavioral changes more swiftly than the use of negative reinforcement.

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One principle highlighted in ABA is that behavior is impacted by the surroundings or environment.

The consequences that immediately follow a behavior will either strengthen the behavior or act as a deterrent.

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The behavior that is reinforced will be the behavior that is maintained.

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