Week 4: Science of Behavior Analysis
The science of behavior analysis is made up of three domains: behaviorism (philosophy), experimental analysis of behavior (basic research), and applied behavior analysis (applied practice and research). These domains are interrelated; therefore, an understanding of applied behavior analysis (ABA) must consider the context of the philosophy of behaviorism and the foundational research traditions and findings of the experimental analysis of behavior.
This week, you will examine the similarities and differences between the three domains of the science of behavior analysis as well as how each contribute to the practice of behavior analysis. Additionally, you will analyze your personal motivations and goals for studying behavior analysis and earning your Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) certification.
Learning Objectives
Students will:
Analyze professional motivations for becoming a BCBA
Analyze similarities and differences between behaviorism, experimental analysis of behavior (EAB), and applied behavior analysis (ABA) PSYC 6717: Foundation and Philosophy of Behavior Analysis
Learning Resources
Required Readings
Cooper, J. O., Heron, T. E., & Heward, W. L. (2020). Applied behavior analysis (3rd ed.). Pearson.
Chapter 1, “Definition and Characteristics of Applied Behavior Analysis” (pp. 2–24)
(Previously read in Week 1)
Schlinger, H. D., Jr. (2017). The importance of analysis in applied behavior analysis. Behavior Analysis: Research and Practice, 17(4), 334–346. https://doi.org/10.1037/bar0000080
Required Media
Walden University, LLC. (2021). Branches of behavior analysis [Interactive media]. Walden University Blackboard. https://class.waldenu.edu
Walden University, LLC. (2021). Science of behavior analysis [Video]. Walden University Blackboard. https://class.waldenu.edu
Note: This media program is approximately 53 minutes.