Special Education: Behavior Analysis in Spec Ed

Instruction for learners with disabilities emphasizing learning principles, applied behavior analysis, and research-based interventions. Interventions focus on teaching new skills as well as analyzing and addressing maladaptive behaviors. Emphasizes applying these approaches in inclusive educational environments. Prerequisite: Special Education Graduate student or Instructor permission.

PACE students only; Degree students register for EDSP 6180 OL1; Synchronous Online Course; Colocated with EDSP 6180 OL1; Total combined enrollment = 25

Our venture into the study of Behavior Management explores the literature and practices that are concerned with managing a classroom so that effective teaching and student growth can occur. Within this course we will discuss theories and models developed for classroom management, and then translates those theories into practical intervention techniques, both for the individual student and classroom groups. Emphasis is placed on the use of interpersonal relationships as a means of changing children’s and youth’s behavior.

I want to take a moment to clarify how I hope you will approach this course. The first rule is: Don't take the concepts as gospel. Just because something is printed does not make it Absolute Truth. Be critical of what you are reading, drawing upon your own experiences and other knowledge. If you find yourself strongly disagreeing with a particular concept, that's fine. Indeed, I encourage strong disagreement. However, if you disagree, you must clarify in your mind the reasons and evidence upon which you are basing your disagreement. At the same time, keep an open mind. Listen to what the readings, myself, and peers have to say. Think about what other experiences you have had and readings you have done that might corroborate the course content. Give yourself time to reflect on the information, insights, and perspectives offered during this course.

Graded assignments include reflections on a novel, midterm exam, and a final project related to designing a behavior intervention plan.