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What is ABA? |
Behavior Analysis is the science of behavior. Applied Behavior Analysis is how that science is applied in real life. It is directed at understanding what causes and maintains human behavior. The focus of ABA is to analyze, understand, and change meaningful behaviors in socially significant ways.
Since the early 1960's, the principles of ABA have been utilized to educate individuals with autism. Its methods have been empirically validated in hundreds of research studies. ABA focuses on objectively defining desired behaviors, measuring progress, and using validated methods to increase those behaviors which allow the student to be as successful as possible in their everyday environment.
Some of the key features of ABA include:
- Emphasis on the "causes" of behavior in applied settings (i.e., home, classroom, grocery store);
- Emphasis on observable, measurable behavior;
- Repeated evaluation of progress;
- Proactive approaches that look to changing the environment to change behavior;
- Socially significant effects are sought;
- Accountability for everyone involved in the intervention;
- Treatment strategies can be refined and adjusted based on objective data of progress.
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What methods/strategies does ABA utilize? |
There are a number of methods for teaching children with ASD using the principles of ABA. These include behavioral approaches such as:
Discrete Trial Teaching (DTT)
- A highly structured teaching environment utilizing very specific techniques for instruction;
- Clear expectations for the student and the teacher;
- Allows for repetition/repeated practice of skills; and
- Performance is easily measured.
Natural Environment Teaching (NET)
- Incidental teaching that follows the child's interest/reinforcers;
- Reduces the need for elaborate generalization; and
- Reduces the potential for inappropriate behavior.
Task Analysis
- The process of breaking a task down into its smaller parts and
- Gives clear direction as to what portion of a task needs to be taught and what is already known
by the student.
Above information obtained for IBS: Intergrative Behavioral Solutions and www.keystoneatlanta.org
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