PSYC 6717: Foundation and Philosophy of Behavior Analysis
Week 1: Introduction to Applied Behavior Analysis
This week, you will examine the foundations of applied behavior analysis. You consider operant conditioning and how it has affected your life, and you will analyze behavior analysis scenarios and identify the applied behavioral characteristic involved in each scenario. You will also complete a module test to demonstrate your understanding of these critical concepts.
Learning Objectives
Students will:
Analyze principles of operant conditioning
Apply principles of behavioral theory to human behavior
Demonstrate understanding of basic concepts and principles of applied behavior analysis (ABA)
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)
Chapter 2, “Basic Concepts and Principles” (pp. 25–46) PSYC 6717: Foundation and Philosophy of Behavior Analysis
Behavior Analysis Certification Board. (2018).
About behavior analysis
. https://www.bacb.com/about-behavior-analysis/
Hubert-Williams, L. (2014, March 1).
Why thoughts aren’t causes.
http://www.leehw.com/thoughts-arent-causes/
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Document
: Behavioral Consequences Scenario Worksheet (Word document)
Required Media
Walden University, LLC. (2021).
Introduction to applied behavior analysis
[Video]. Walden University Blackboard. https://class.waldenu.edu
Note
: This media program is approximately 39 minutes.
Accessible player
–Downloads–
Download Video w/CC
Download Audio
Download Transcript
Walden University, LLC. (2021).
Becoming a board certified behavior analyst
[Video]. Walden University Blackboard. https://class.waldenu.edu
Note
: This media program is approximately 56 minutes.
Accessible player
–Downloads–
Download Video w/CC
Download Audio
Download Transcript
Walden University, LLC. (2021).
Your VCS
[Video]. Walden University Blackboard. https://class.waldenu.edu
Note
: This media program is approximately 52 minutes.
Accessible player
–Downloads–
Download Video w/CC
Download Audio
Download Transcript
Walden University, LLC. (2021).
Operant conditioning terms
[Interactive media]. Walden University Blackboard. https://class.waldenu.edu PSYC 6717: Foundation and Philosophy of Behavior Analysis
Discussion: Operant Conditioning
Photo Credit: Destina – stock.adobe.com
Throughout your life, you have been conditioned to respond to certain stimuli in certain ways. This is known as operant conditioning.
Operant conditioning
is the type of learning in which the consequences of a behavior influence whether an individual will act in the same way in the future.
Even if there was not a clear behavior plan, the principles of operant conditioning have helped shape your life. In operant conditioning, you learn the relationship between your own behavior and reinforcing or punishing consequences from your environment. You may also learn conditions (antecedents) where consequences are more or less likely to occur.
For this
Discussion
, you will analyze the fundamental principles of operant conditioning and how it has impacted your life. Additionally, you analyze how behavioral psychological theory (e.g., antecedents, reinforcements, punishment) is applied to condition behavior PSYC 6717: Foundation and Philosophy of Behavior Analysis. As you read this week’s Learning Resources, try to identify times in your life when operant conditioning clearly played a part in your learning.
To Prepare
Consider how terminology of operant conditioning relates to specific behaviors.
Think about how your parents reinforced or punished you when you were growing up, and how those acts influenced how you behaved.
Consider how situations in your life today contribute to your behavior. Are you more or less likely to do something when a certain person is around?
Review the interactive media in the Learning Resources, “
Operant Conditioning
Terms.”
By Day 4 of Week 1
Post
a description of a scenario that illustrates the application of operant conditioning in your life and explain how behavioral theory (e.g., antecedents, reinforcements, punishment) was applied to condition behavior in the scenario you posted. Explain how the antecedent condition facilitated or inhibited the target behavior discussed.
Read
your colleagues’ postings.
Note:
For this discussion, you are required to complete your initial post before you will be able to view and respond to your colleagues’ postings. Begin by clicking on the
To Participate in this Discussion
link, then select
Create Thread
to complete your initial post. Remember, once you click on
Submit
, you cannot delete or edit your own posts, and cannot post anonymously PSYC 6717: Foundation and Philosophy of Behavior Analysis. Please check your post carefully before clicking on
Submit
!
By Day 6 of Week 1
Respond
to at least
two
colleagues’ posts in one of the following ways:
Expand on each colleague’s explanation of how they applied behavioral theory to their scenario.
Offer your perspective(s) on whether you agree or disagree with each colleague’s explanation of how the antecedent condition facilitated or inhibited the target behavior discussed.
Be sure to support your posts and responses with specific references to behavior-analytic theory and research. In addition to the Learning Resources, search the Walden Library and/or internet for peer-reviewed articles to support your posts and responses. Use proper APA format and citations, including those in the Learning Resources.
Return
to this Discussion in a few days to read the responses to your initial posting. Note what you have learned and/or any insights that you have gained because of your colleagues’ comments.
Submission and Grading Information
To access your rubric:
Week 1 Discussion Rubric
Post by Day 4 and Respond by Day 6 of Week 1
To participate in this Discussion:
Week 1 Discussion
Assignment: Application of Behavioral Theory
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To effectively determine best methods for behavior change, the professional behavior analyst needs to develop a strong understanding of how to analyze the situation, including the target behavior, antecedent conditions, and consequences for the behavior. Understanding the terms and phrases used in applied behavior analysis is critical to appropriately evaluate a situation and determine effective methods for behavior change PSYC 6717: Foundation and Philosophy of Behavior Analysis.
One of the most frequently misused terms in psychology is “negative reinforcement.” Many people use this term to describe punishment because it “sounds better.” In behavioral psychology, terms are sometimes used differently than they are in everyday language. For example, the term “reinforcement” means that the rate of a behavior is increased. The term “punishment” means the rate of a behavior is decreased. The term “positive” means a stimulus is presented, and the term “negative” means a stimulus is removed. Therefore, negative reinforcement occurs when an aversive stimulus is removed, which results in an increase in probability of the behavior it followed.
For this Assignment, you will explore the application of behavioral theory. You will review a set of scenarios, analyze and identify the applied behavioral characteristic involved in the scenario, and explain how the scenario meets the definition of the characteristic you identified.
To Prepare
Review the Learning Resources for this week, including the required weekly media programs.
Review the “Behavioral Consequences Scenario Worksheet” found in the Learning Resources. You will use this worksheet to complete the Assignment.
Assignment
(1–2 pages)
Complete the
Behavioral Consequences Scenario Worksheet
. To complete the worksheet, do the following for each scenario:
Identify and define the following consequences used in applied behavior analysis in each scenario (i.e., positive reinforcement, negative reinforcement, positive punishment, negative punishment).
Explain how each scenario meets the definition of the applied behavior analysis characteristic you identified. Within your explanation, identify each of the components of the definition within the scenario PSYC 6717: Foundation and Philosophy of Behavior Analysis.
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Be sure to support your Assignment with specific references to behavior-analytic theory and research. In addition to the Learning Resources, search the Walden Library and/or the internet for peer-reviewed articles to support your Assignment. Use proper APA format and citations, including those in the Learning Resources.
By Day 7 of Week 1
Submit
the Behavioral Consequences Scenario Worksheet.
Submission and Grading Information
To submit your
completed Assignment
for review and grading, do the following:
Please save your Assignment using the naming convention “WK1Assgn+last name+first initial.(extension)” as the name.
Click on the
Week 1 Assignment Rubric
to review the Grading Criteria for the Assignment.
Click on the
Week 1 Assignment
link. You will also be able to “View Rubric” for grading criteria from this area.
Next, from the Attach File area, click on the
Browse My Computer
button. Find the document you saved as “WK1Assgn+last name+first initial.(extension)” and click on
Open
.
If applicable: From the Plagiarism Tools area, click the checkbox for
I agree to submit my paper(s) to the Global Reference Database PSYC 6717: Foundation and Philosophy of Behavior Analysis
.
Click on the
Submit
button to complete your submission.
Grading Criteria
To access your rubric:
Week 1 Assignment Rubric
Check Your Assignment Draft for Authenticity
To check your Assignment draft for authenticity:
Submit your Week 1 Assignment draft and review the originality report.
Submit Your Assignment by Day 7
To submit your Assignment:
Week 1 Assignment
Module 1 Test: Introduction to Applied Behavior Analysis
Photo Credit: Alexey Novikov / Adobe Stock
Each module in this course provides fundamental information in a critical area of applied behavior analysis. At the end of each module, you will take a test to demonstrate your understanding of the topics covered.
This week’s Test assesses your knowledge of the assigned course readings and material introducing you to applied behavior analysis.
To Prepare
Review the Learning Resources and consider how these resources will guide your understanding of applied behavior analysis as you prepare for your
Module 1 Test
.
Test Instructions
This Test consists of 10 multiple-choice or true/false questions.
Each question is worth one point PSYC 6717: Foundation and Philosophy of Behavior Analysis.
Questions are presented in a random order.
This Test allows you to go back to check or change your answers at any point during your allotted Test time.
You may use your course readings and other resources to help you. This Test is open book.
You will have unlimited time to finish this Test by the end of the week.
You must pass the Test at 90% for competency.
Once the Test has been submitted, the correct answer will be indicated when you have given an incorrect answer.
If you need to retake the Test, a new Test will be generated.
By Day 7 of Week 1
Submit
your Test by
Day 7
.
Submission Information
Complete the Test by Day 7 of Week 1
To complete your Test:
Module 1 Test
Week in Review
This week
, you were introduced to the fundamentals of applied behavior analysis. You reflected on how operant conditioning has affected your life, and you analyzed a set of scenarios to identify the applied behavior analysis characteristic being used. You also completed the Module Test to demonstrate your understanding of these critical concepts.
Next week
, you will begin the next module of this course,
Module 2: Philosophical Underpinnings
. In the first week of Module 2, you will examine assumptions of behavior analysis and why they are important for a behavior analyst.
Next Module
Module 2: Philosophical Underpinnings
In the first module of this course, you were introduced to the fundamentals of applied behavior analysis (ABA). In particular, you focused on the concepts and terminology of operant conditioning and practiced applying behavioral theory to a set of scenarios.
Module 2 builds on this foundation by examining a common set of philosophical assumptions that characterize and apply to the science of ABA. Understanding these philosophical underpinnings provides a scientific basis from which to inform the methods you use to effect behavioral changes and positively impact learning PSYC 6717: Foundation and Philosophy of Behavior Analysis.
Additionally, you will explore the three branches of behavior analysis—behaviorism, experimental analysis of behavior (EAB), and applied behavior analysis (ABA)—and consider their contribution to the field. In particular, you will examine psychologist B. F. Skinner’s philosophy of radical behaviorism as it relates to learning and the influence of the environment on behavior PSYC 6717: Foundation and Philosophy of Behavior Analysis. You will study the seminal dimensions of behavior analysis put forth by researchers Baer, Wolf, and Risley and evaluate their application to the practice of behavior analysis. Finally, you will apply the philosophical underpinnings to your analysis of a behavior-analytic intervention designed to address an applied concern.
Go to the Weekly Content
Week 2
Week 3
Week 4
Week 5
Week 6
Week 2: Philosophical Assumptions of Behavior Analysis
This is the first week of
Module 2: Philosophical Underpinnings
. During this week, you will analyze assumptions of behavior for behavior analysts. You will further focus on the assumption known as the Law of Parsimony and consider how, as a behavior analyst, you could apply this behavioral assumption when communicating behavior-analytic interventions to a parent or teacher.
Learning Objectives
Students will:
Analyze the assumptions of behavior analysis
Analyze the Law of Parsimony as it relates to a real-life application
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)
Kimball, J. W. (2002). Behavior-analytic instruction for children with autism: Philosophy matters.
Focus on Autism and Other Developmental Disabilities, 17
(2), 66–75. https://doi.org/10.1177/10883576020170020101
Required Media
Walden University, LLC. (2021).
Philosophical assumptions of behavior analysis
[Video]. Walden University Blackboard. https://class.waldenu.edu PSYC 6717: Foundation and Philosophy of Behavior Analysis
Note
: This media program is approximately 59 minutes.
Accessible player
Walden University, LLC. (2021).
Six assumptions and attitudes of behavior analysis
[Interactive media]. Walden University Blackboard. https://class.waldenu.edu
Discussion: Philosophical Assumptions
Photo Credit: esoxx – stock.adobe.com
The behavior of the scientists of applied behavior analysis is characterized by a set of philosophical assumptions and attitudes of science. They guide the work of the behavior analyst, including their investigations, strategic approaches, and interpretations of findings.
For this Discussion, you will analyze six assumptions and attitudes of behavior analysis discussed in the Learning Resources—determinism, empiricism, experimentation, replication, parsimony, and philosophic doubt. You will also consider examples of how the assumptions apply to the study of behavior.
To Prepare
Review the Learning Resources for this week as well as the required weekly media program to gain an understanding of the philosophical assumptions that inform the practice of behavior analysis.
Consider examples of how the philosophical assumptions apply to the study of human behavior.
Review the interactive media in the Learning Resources, “Six Assumptions or Attitudes of Behavior Analysis.”
By Day 4 of Week 2
The behavior of scientists, including behavior analysts, is characterized by a common set of assumptions: determinism, empiricism, experimentation, replication, parsimony, and philosophic doubt.
Post
two of these
assumptions
and give an example of how each applies to the study of human behavior.
Read
your colleagues’ postings.
Note:
For this discussion, you are required to complete your
initial post
before you will be able to view and respond to your colleagues’ postings. Begin by clicking on the
To Participate in this Discussion
link, then select
Create Thread
to complete your initial post. Remember, once you click on
Submit
, you cannot delete or edit your own posts, and cannot post anonymously. Please check your post carefully before clicking on
Submit
!
By Day 6 of Week 2
Respond
to at least
two
colleagues’ posts by expanding on each of their explanations of how the assumptions they identified in their examples apply to the study of human behavior PSYC 6717: Foundation and Philosophy of Behavior Analysis.
Be sure to support your posts and responses with specific references to behavior-analytic theory and research. In addition to the Learning Resources, search the Walden Library and/or internet for peer-reviewed articles to support your posts and responses. Use proper APA format and citations, including those in the Learning Resources.
Return
to this Discussion in a few days to read the responses to your initial posting. Note what you have learned and/or any insights that you have gained because of your colleagues’ comments.
Submission and Grading Information
To access your rubric:
Week 2 Discussion Rubric
Post by Day 4 and Respond by Day 6 of Week 2
To participate in this Discussion:
Week 2 Discussion
Assignment: Parsimony
Photo Credit: iushakovsky – stock.adobe.com
For this week’s Discussion, you examined a common set of assumptions characterizing the behavior of behavior analysts. One of those assumptions is the Law of Parsimony. The history and etymology of the word parsimony is from the Latin
pars-
, meaning “to act sparingly, be thrifty (with), refrain from” (Merriam-Webster, n.d.). By extension, the Law of Parsimony posits that given two explanations for a given phenomenon, you should choose the simplest scientific explanation that fits the evidence.
Ultimately, an important purpose for using parsimonious interpretations is to enable a principle of economy when determining where new findings might incorporate into the existing knowledge base of a given field. By way of illustration, consider the following review regarding negative symptoms in schizophrenia. In the review, the authors identify a lengthy list of nearly 20 negative schizophrenia symptoms ranging from different forms of affect issues to poor grooming to asociality. Applying the law of parsimony (referred to as Occam’s Razor in the review) the authors simplified their evidence by stating, “…we propose that while negative symptoms are varied and broad in both their clinical presentation and longitudinal course, they can all be subsumed under the concept of avolition. As the primary construct, avolition translates to decreased functional performance, a hallmark of schizophrenia’s longer-term outcome but identifiable in its earliest stages” (Foussias, & Remington, 2010).
For this Assignment, you will consider why parsimony is an important construct a behavior analyst might use when communicating interventions to a parent or teacher.
References:
Foussias, G., & Remington, G. (2010). Negative symptoms in schizophrenia: Avolition and Occam’s razor.
Schizophrenia Bulletin
,
36
(2), 359–369. https://doi.org/10.1093/schbul/sbn094
Merriam-Webster. (n.d.). Parsimony. Retrieved February 6, 2021, from https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/parsimony
To Prepare:
Review this week’s Learning Resources about parsimony PSYC 6717: Foundation and Philosophy of Behavior Analysis.
Consider practical ways parsimony might be used by a behavior analyst.
Assignment
(1 page)
Write an explanation addressing
why parsimony is important for a behavior analyst
when communicating a prospective intervention to a parent or teacher. Be parsimonious in your response.
Be sure to support your Assignment with specific references to behavior-analytic theory and research. In addition to the Learning Resources, search the Walden Library and/or the internet for peer-reviewed articles to support your Assignment. Use proper APA format and citations, including those in the Learning Resources.
By Day 7 of Week 2
Submit
your Assignment.
Submission and Grading Information
To submit your completed Assignment for review and grading, do the following:
Please save your Assignment using the naming convention “WK2Assgn+last name+first initial.(extension)” as the name.
Click on the
Week 2 Assignment Rubric
to review the Grading Criteria for the Assignment.
Click on the
Week 2 Assignment
link. You will also be able to “View Rubric” for grading criteria from this area.
Next, from the Attach File area, click on the
Browse My Computer
button. Find the document you saved as “WK2Assgn+last name+first initial.(extension)” and click on
Open
.
If applicable: From the Plagiarism Tools area, click the checkbox for
I agree to submit my paper(s) to the Global Reference Database
.
Click on the
Submit
button to complete your submission.
Grading Criteria
To access your rubric:
Week 2 Assignment Rubric
Check Your Assignment Draft for Authenticity
To check your Assignment draft for authenticity:
Submit your Week 2 Assignment draft and review the originality report.
Submit Your Assignment by Day 7
To submit your Assignment:
Week 2 Assignment
Week in Review
This week
, you examined six assumptions and attitudes of behavior analysis. You analyzed and applied the Law of Parsimony to how a behavior analyst might use it when communicating a proposed behavioral intervention.
Next week
, you will examine the principles of B. F. Skinner’s radical behaviorism. You will evaluate the effectiveness and appropriateness of radical behaviorism using specific instances in your own life experience that seem to be consistent with Skinner’s learning principles PSYC 6717: Foundation and Philosophy of Behavior Analysis.
Week 3: Radical Behaviorism
In his own words, psychologist and behaviorist B. F. Skinner explained radical behaviorism as, “the philosophy of a science of behavior treated as a subject matter in its own right apart from internal explanations, mental or physiological” (p. 122).
This week focuses on the principles of radical behaviorism. You will examine the history of behaviorism and how the development of Skinner’s radical behaviorism was a significant departure from the historical conceptual systems of behaviorism preceding its emergence. Using the principles of radical behaviorism, you will consider your own life experiences, or life experiences you have observed in others, that seem to exemplify Skinner’s learning principles and employ your judgment regarding their effectiveness and appropriateness.
Reference:
Skinner, B. F. (1989).
Recent issues in the analysis of behavior
. Merrill.
Learning Objectives
Students will:
Evaluate radical behaviorism
Evaluate the principles of radical behaviorism to one’s life and behaviors
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) PSYC 6717: Foundation and Philosophy of Behavior Analysis
Moore, J. (2011). Behaviorism.
The Psychological Record, 61
(3), 449–463. https://doi.org/10.1007/BF03395771
Credit Line: Behaviorism by Moore, J., in The Psychological Record, Vol. 61/ Issue 3. Copyright 2011 by Denison University. Reprinted by permission of Denison University via the Copyright Clearance Center. Licensed in 2021.
Moxley, R. A. (2004). Pragmatic selectionism: The philosophy of behavior analysis.
The Behavior Analyst Today, 5
(1), 108–125. https://doi.org/10.1037/h0100137
Required Media
Walden University, LLC. (2021).
Radical behaviorism
[Video]. Walden University Blackboard. https://class.waldenu.edu
Note
: This media program is approximately 42 minutes.
Accessible player
–Downloads–
Download Video w/CC
Download Audio
Download Transcript
Walden University, LLC. (2021).
Skinner’s radical behaviorism
[Interactive media]. Walden University Blackboard. https://class.waldenu.edu
Discussion: Behaviorism
Photo Credit: Vitezslav Vylicil – stock.adobe.com
One skill of an applied behavior analyst is collaborating to identify negative behaviors an individual is exhibiting and then developing treatments for those behaviors (e.g., strategies, interventions, etc.) to help them change the behaviors and derive improved outcomes for themselves. Radical behaviorism posits there is a science of behavior that has shown the environment as a significant cause of behavior and that experiential factors play a primary role in determining behavior (Cooper et al., 2020). The strategies and interventions of the applied behavior analyst represent efforts to change maladaptive behavior by systematically employing techniques that control circumstances in which negative behaviors arise and helping individuals learn and apply new skills.
For example, if a child in a classroom is repeatedly leaving their seat during instruction (i.e., maladaptive behavior), an applied behavior analyst would work with the child to identify the factors contributing to the maladaptive behavior and then develop strategies or interventions to generate more appropriate behavior by the child.
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For this week’s Discussion, you will consider your perspectives on radical
behaviorism
and its learning principles.
Reference:
Cooper, J. O., Heron, T. E., & Heward, W. L. (2020).
Applied behavior analysis
(3rd ed.). Pearson.
To Prepare
Review the Learning Resources for this week as well as the required weekly media program to gain an understanding of radical behaviorism.
Think about whether you concur with the learning principles of radical behaviorism. PSYC 6717: Foundation and Philosophy of Behavior Analysis
By Day 4 of Week 3
Post
an
explanation
of whether you agree or disagree with the following statement, and why or why not:
Skinner’s “radical behaviorism” proposes that behavior, rather than cognitive processes, should be the primary topic of study.
Read
your colleagues’ postings.
Note:
For this discussion, you are required to complete your initial post before you will be able to view and respond to your colleagues’ postings. Begin by clicking on the
To Participate in this Discussion
link, then select
Create Thread
to complete your initial post. Remember, once you click on
Submit
, you cannot delete or edit your own posts, and cannot post anonymously. Please check your post carefully before clicking on
Submit
!
By Day 6 of Week 3
Respond
to at least
two
colleagues’ posts by expanding on each colleague’s rationale for why they agree or disagree with Skinner’s proposal. Justify your response.
Be sure to support your posts and responses with specific references to behavior-analytic theory and research. In addition to the Learning Resources, search the Walden Library and/or internet for peer-reviewed articles to support your posts and responses. Use proper APA format and citations, including those in the Learning Resources.
Return
to this Discussion in a few days to read the responses to your initial posting. Note what you have learned and/or any insights that you have gained because of your colleagues’ comments.
Submission and Grading Information
To access your rubric:
Week 3 Discussion Rubric
Post by Day 4 and Respond by Day 6 of Week 3
To participate in this Discussion:
Week 3 Discussion
Assignment: Behaviorism
Photo Credit: Monkey Business – stock.adobe.com
In this week’s Learning Resources you read about Skinner’s radical behaviorism. Skinner’s learning principles can be applied in the areas of behavior management and education. For example, “reinforcement” is one of Skinner’s learning principles and refers to anything that increases the likelihood a response will recur. In a classroom, this learning principle can be seen in the form of a “token economy,” whereby the teacher awards tokens immediately after a desirable behavior as a technique to reinforce the desirable behavior and decrease undesirable behavior. The tokens can later be exchanged for a meaningful item or privilege.
For this Assignment, you will describe specific instances in your own life experiences, or life experiences you have observed in others, that seem to be consistent with Skinner’s learning principles and use your own judgment to evaluate their effectiveness and appropriateness PSYC 6717: Foundation and Philosophy of Behavior Analysis.
To Prepare:
Review the Learning Resources for this week to gain an understanding of the learning principles of Skinner’s radical behaviorism, including the weekly media video and the interactive media, “Skinner’s Radical Behaviorism.
Identify at least two specific instances in your own life experiences, or life experience you have observed in others, that seem to be consistent with Skinner’s learning principles, either from the behavior management side (e.g., reinforcement, extinction, time out, token economies) or from the educational side (e.g., behavioral objectives, self-paced learning).
Assignment
(1–2 pages)
Write a description of at least two specific instances in your own life experience, or life experiences you have observed in others, that seem to be consistent with Skinner’s learning principles. These can be either from the behavior management side (e.g., reinforcement, extinction, time out, token economies) or from the educational side (e.g., behavioral objectives, self-paced learning). Briefly describe these instances and comment on their effectiveness and appropriateness (in your judgment).
Be sure to support your Assignment with specific references to behavior-analytic theory and research. In addition to the Learning Resources, search the Walden Library and/or internet for peer-reviewed articles to support your Assignment. Use proper APA format and citations, including those in the Learning Resources.
By Day 7 of Week 3
Submit
your Assignment.
Submission and Grading Information
To submit your completed Assignment for review and grading, do the following:
Please save your Assignment using the naming convention “WK3Assgn+last name+first initial.(extension)” as the name.
Click on the
Week 3 Assignment Rubric
to review the Grading Criteria for the Assignment.
Click on the
Week 3 Assignment
link. You will also be able to “View Rubric” for grading criteria from this area.
Next, from the Attach File area, click on the
Browse My Computer
button. Find the document you saved as “WK3Assgn+last name+first initial.(extension)” and click on
Open
. PSYC 6717: Foundation and Philosophy of Behavior Analysis
If applicable: From the Plagiarism Tools area, click the checkbox for
I agree to submit my paper(s) to the Global Reference Database
.
Click on the
Submit
button to complete your submission.
Grading Criteria
To access your rubric:
Week 3 Assignment Rubric
Check Your Assignment Draft for Authenticity
To check your Assignment draft for authenticity:
Submit your Week 3 Assignment draft and review the originality report.
Submit Your Assignment by Day 7
To submit your Assignment:
Week 3 Assignment
Week in Review
This week
, you examined the principles of B. F. Skinner’s radical behaviorism. You evaluated the effectiveness and appropriateness of radical behaviorism using specific instances in your own life experience that seemed to be consistent with Skinner’s learning principles.
Next week
, you will examine the three branches of behavior analysis and provide examples of how each branch contributes to the practice of behavior analysis. Additionally, you will analyze your professional motivations for pursuing a course of study that will lead to your becoming a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA).
Next Week
Week 4
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.
Accessible player
Discussion: Applied Behavior Analysis
Photo Credit: GoodIdeas / Adobe Stock
You have made a significant decision to further your formal education in the field of applied behavior analysis. You likely have an interest in behaviors and their relationship with the environment and a desire to learn and apply behavioral techniques that will help individuals achieve beneficial behavioral change. While applied behavior analysts work with individuals of different ages, the skills of an applied behavior analyst are especially needed with children with autism.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2020) reports that autism spectrum disorders (ASD) affect 1 in 54 children, representing a tripling of the prevalence rate since 2000. The respected and specialized behavior analysis assessment and intervention strategies you employ in your role as an applied behavior analyst can help autistic children and others with developmental issues to learn new skills and meet behavioral challenges.
For this Discussion, you will analyze your decision to embark on a course of study that will lead to your becoming a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) PSYC 6717: Foundation and Philosophy of Behavior Analysis.
Reference:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020). Prevalence of autism spectrum disorder among children aged 8 years — autism and developmental disabilities monitoring network, 11 sites, United States, 2016
.
Surveillance Summaries
,
69
(4), 1–12. https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/69/ss/ss6904a1.htm
To Prepare
Reflect on what motivated you to pursue a course of study that will lead to your becoming a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA).
Consider what professional goals you will have once you earn your BCBA.
By Day 4 of Week 4
Post
a reflection addressing the following:
What led you to decide to study behavior analysis?
What experience do you have in behavior analysis?
What work do you hope to do once you earn your BCBA and how might this impact your desire for positive social change?
Read
your colleagues’ postings.
Note:
For this discussion, you are required to complete your initial post before you will be able to view and respond to your colleagues’ postings. Begin by clicking on the
To Participate in this Discussion
link, then select
Create Thread
to complete your initial post. Remember, once you click on
Submit
, you cannot delete or edit your own posts, and cannot post anonymously. Please check your post carefully before clicking on
Submit
!
By Day 6 of Week 4
Respond
to at least
two
colleagues’ posts by providing your perspectives on their professional goals once they earn their BCBA.
Be sure to support your posts and responses with specific references to behavior-analytic theory and research. In addition to the Learning Resources, search the Walden Library and/or the internet for peer-reviewed articles to support your posts and responses. Use proper APA format and citations, including those in the Learning Resources.
Return
to this Discussion in a few days to read the responses to your initial posting. Note what you have learned and/or any insights that you have gained because of your colleagues’ comments.
Submission and Grading Information
To access your rubric:
Week 4 Discussion Rubric
Post by Day 4 and Respond by Day 6 of Week 4
To participate in this Discussion:
Week 4 Discussion
Assignment: The Science of Behavior Analysis
Photo Credit: gustavofrazao – stock.adobe.com
The field of behavior analysis comprises three separate yet overlapping and related branches: behaviorism, experimental analysis of behavior (EAB), and applied behavior analysis (ABA). The theories, procedures, and practices of each of the three branches should inform one another PSYC 6717: Foundation and Philosophy of Behavior Analysis. Because behavior analysis is a science, it necessarily seeks to identify and implement behavioral treatment strategies and interventions in the real world that are grounded in both the philosophy and research from the field and with the ultimate goal of improving behavioral outcomes for the client.
For this Assignment, you will define each of the three branches of behavior analysis and analyze their similarities and differences. You will also provide examples of how each branch contributes to the practice of behavior analysis
To Prepare:
Review the Learning Resources for this week, including the video and interactive media, “Branches of Behavior Analysis,” to gain an understanding of the three branches of behavior analysis.
Consider the relationships between the three branches of behavior analysis and how they contribute to the practice.
Assignment
(1–2 pages)
Define of each of the three branches of behavior analysis: behaviorism,
experimental analysis of behavior (EAB)
, and applied behavior analysis (ABA). Then, clarify the similarities and differences by giving examples of how each contributes to the practice of behavior analysis.
Be sure to support your Assignment with specific references to behavior-analytic theory and research. In addition to the Learning Resources, search the Walden Library and/or the internet for peer-reviewed articles to support your Assignment. Use proper APA format and citations, including those in the Learning Resources.
By Day 7 of Week 4
Submit
your Assignment.
Submission and Grading Information
To submit your completed Assignment for review and grading, do the following:
Please save your Assignment using the naming convention “WK4Assgn+last name+first initial.(extension)” as the name.
Click on the
Week 4 Assignment Rubric
to review the Grading Criteria for the Assignment.
Click on the
Week 4 Assignment
link. You will also be able to “View Rubric” for grading criteria from this area.
Next, from the Attach File area, click on the
Browse My Computer
button. Find the document you saved as “WK4Assgn+last name+first initial.(extension)” and click on
Open
.
If applicable: From the Plagiarism Tools area, click the checkbox for
I agree to submit my paper(s) to the Global Reference Database
.
Click on the
Submit
button to complete your submission. PSYC 6717: Foundation and Philosophy of Behavior Analysis
Grading Criteria
To access your rubric:
Week 4 Assignment Rubric
Check Your Assignment Draft for Authenticity
To check your Assignment draft for authenticity:
Submit your Week 4 Assignment draft and review the originality report.
Submit Your Assignment by Day 7
To submit your Assignment:
Week 4 Assignment
Week in Review
This week
you examined the three branches of behavior analysis and provided examples of how each branch contributes to the practice of behavior analysis. Additionally, you analyzed your professional motivations for pursuing a course of study that will lead to your becoming a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA).
Next week
, you will analyze the seven dimensions of behavior analysis proposed by Baer, Wolf, and Risley in their seminal article, “Some Current Dimensions of Applied Behavior Analysis,” and provide examples of how each apply to the practice of behavior analysis. You will also evaluate the relevance of the seven dimensions of behavior analysis to the practice of behavior analysis today PSYC 6717: Foundation and Philosophy of Behavior Analysis.
Next Week
Week 5
Week 5: Dimensions of Applied Behavior Analysis
In their seminal article, Baer et al. (1968) elucidate the differences between applied and non-applied (theoretical) research, stating “. . . applied research is constrained to examining behaviors which are socially important, rather than convenient for study. It also implies, very frequently, the study of those behaviors in their usual social settings, rather than in a “laboratory” setting” (p. 92). They expand on these differences by identifying seven dimensions of applied behavior analysis (ABA) that are indicators of how ABA represents a science of behavior analysis.
This week, you will examine the seven dimensions of applied behavior analysis identified by Baer, Wolf, and Risley in their seminal 1968 article and evaluate the relevance and practical application of the dimensions in the 21st century.
Reference:
Baer, D. M., Wolf, M. M., & Risley, T. R. (1968). Some current dimensions of applied behavior analysis.
Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 1
(1), 91–97. PSYC 6717: Foundation and Philosophy of Behavior Analysis
Learning Objectives
Students will:
Evaluate the relevance of the Baer, Wolf, and Risley’s dimensions of behavior analysis to the practice of behavior analysis in the 21st century
Analyze Baer, Wolf, and Risley’s dimensions 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) PSYC 6717: Foundation and Philosophy of Behavior Analysis
Baer, D. M., Wolf, M. M., & Risley, T. R. (1968). Some current dimensions of applied behavior analysis.
Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 1
(1), 91–97. https://doi.org/10.1901/jaba.1968.1-91
Credit Line: Some current dimensions of applied behavior analysis by Baer, D. M., Wolf, M. M., & Risley, T. R., in Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, Vol. 1/ Issue 1. Copyright 1968 by Society for the Experimental Analysis of Behavior. Reprinted by permission of Society for the Experimental Analysis of Behavior via the Copyright Clearance Center. Licensed in 2021.
Required Media
Walden University, LLC. (2021).
Dimensions of applied behavior analysis
[Video]. Walden University Blackboard. https://class.waldenu.edu
Note
: This media program is approximately 30 minutes.
Accessible player
–Downloads–
Download Video w/CC
Download Audio
Download Transcript
Walden University, LLC. (2021).
Dimensions of applied behavior analysis
[Interactive media]. Walden University Blackboard. https://class.waldenu.edu PSYC 6717: Foundation and Philosophy of Behavior Analysis
Discussion: Baer, Wolf, and Risley (1968)
Photo Credit: utah51 / Adobe Stock
Applied behavior analysis is a movement that began in the late 1950s within the field of experimental analysis of behavior (EAB) and was based on B. F. Skinner’s operant conditioning principles. As the applied orientation began to develop, it focused on practical interventions and applied topics relevant to socially significant behavior. This focus represented an incongruity with the criteria and research questions representing basic theoretical research and analysis in the field of contemporary applied psychology PSYC 6717: Foundation and Philosophy of Behavior Analysis. This incongruity grew enough to demonstrate a need for a journal focused on the increasingly popular applied orientation.
In 1967, the
Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis
(JABA) was launched to address the need. The editors of the journal included Donald Baer, Montrose M. Wolf, and Todd Risley, who in the first issue of the JABA journal contributed an article that proposed criteria that would come to inform the application of concepts of applied behavior analysis. It also served to provide guidance to researchers seeking to be published in the journal. As indicated by the title of their seminal 1968 article, “Some Current Dimensions of Applied Behavior Analysis,” Baer, Wolf, and Risley proposed seven criteria, or dimensions, of applied behavior analysis (Baer et al., 1968).
For this Discussion, you will reflect on the seminal article by Baer et al. (1968), located in this week’s Learning Resources, and evaluate the relevance of the seven dimensions of behavior analysis in the article to the practice of behavior analysis today. You will also identify your most important takeaway from the article.
ORDER A PLAGIARISM-FREE PAPER
Reference:
Baer, D. M., Wolf, M. M., & Risley, T. R. (1968). Some current dimensions of applied behavior analysis.
Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 1
(1), 91–97 PSYC 6717: Foundation and Philosophy of Behavior Analysis.
To Prepare
From the Learning Resources for this week, review the
seminal Baer, Wolf, and Risley article and consider how the information applies to applied behavior analysis today.
By Day 4 of Week 5
Post
what makes the information in the Baer, Wolf, and Risley article relevant to the practice of Applied Behavior Analysis today, more than 50 years later as well as what is the most important thing you learned from this article and how might this information impact your future professional work as a behavior analyst.
Read
your colleagues’ postings.
Note:
For this discussion, you are required to complete your initial post before you will be able to view and respond to your colleagues’ postings. Begin by clicking on the
To Participate in this Discussion
link, then select
Create Thread
to complete your initial post. Remember, once you click on
Submit
, you cannot delete or edit your own posts, and cannot post anonymously. Please check your post carefully before clicking on
Submit
!
By Day 6 of Week 5
Respond
to at least
two
colleagues’ posts in one of the following ways:
Expand on their explanation of what makes the information in the Baer, Wolf, and Risley article relevant to the practice of Applied Behavior Analysis today, more than 50 years later.
Offer additional insights regarding the most important thing they learned from the article and its potential impact on their future professional work as a behavior analyst PSYC 6717: Foundation and Philosophy of Behavior Analysis.
Be sure to support your posts and responses with specific references to behavior-analytic theory and research. In addition to the Learning Resources, search the Walden Library and/or the internet for peer-reviewed articles to support your posts and responses. Use proper APA format and citations, including those in the Learning Resources.
Return
to this Discussion in a few days to read the responses to your initial posting. Note what you have learned and/or any insights that you have gained because of your colleagues’ comments.
Submission and Grading Information
To access your rubric:
Week 5 Discussion Rubric
Post by Day 4 and Respond by Day 6 of Week 5
To participate in this Discussion:
Week 5 Discussion
Assignment: Dimensions of Applied Behavior Analysis
Photo Credit: DedMityay / Adobe Stock
Baer et al. (1968) suggest that for a science to be considered truly applied behavior analysis it must demonstrate the seven dimensions of being applied, behavioral, analytic, technological, conceptually systematic, effective, and display generality. These dimensions define the parameters of a scientifically based intervention. When designing the intervention, it should be consistent with research-based principles of applied behavior analysis. The behaviors receiving the intervention should be socially important to the individual and individual’s family and conducted in real-world settings PSYC 6717: Foundation and Philosophy of Behavior Analysis.
The techniques of an intervention should be explicitly identified and described in enough detail that others could replicate it. It should include an evaluative component defining what data you will collect and analyze in order to evaluate whether an intervention is working and whether the desired behavioral change is generalizable across different environments and time. PSYC 6717: Foundation and Philosophy of Behavior Analysis In effect, the data must demonstrate a reliable, functional relationship between the intervention and desired behavioral change.
For this Assignment, you will analyze each of the seven dimensions of applied behavior analysis and provide examples of how each applies to the practice of behavior analysis.
Reference:
Baer, D. M., Wolf, M. M., & Risley, T. R. (1968). Some current dimensions of applied behavior analysis.
Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 1
(1), 91–97.
To Prepare:
Review the Learning Resources for this week, particularly those describing the dimensions of applied behavior analysis proposed by Baer, Wolf, and Risley.
Consider how you think each dimension might apply to the practice of behavior analysis.
Review the interactive media in the Learning Resources, “Dimensions of Applied Behavior Analysis.”
Assignment
(1–2 pages)
Explain what Baer, Wolf, and Risley meant when they said each of the following criteria must be present for applied behavior analysis to be considered a science. Give an example of how each applies to the practice of behavior analysis.
applied
behavioral
analytic
technological
conceptually systematic
effective
capable of appropriately generalized outcomes
Be sure to support your Assignment with specific references to behavior-analytic theory and research. In addition to the Learning Resources, search the Walden Library and/or the internet for peer-reviewed articles to support your Assignment. Use proper APA format and citations, including those in the Learning Resources PSYC 6717: Foundation and Philosophy of Behavior Analysis.
By Day 7 of Week 5
Submit
your Assignment.
Submission and Grading Information
To submit your completed Assignment for review and grading, do the following:
Please save your Assignment using the naming convention “WK5Assgn+last name+first initial.(extension)” as the name.
Click on the
Week 5 Assignment Rubric
to review the Grading Criteria for the Assignment.
Click on the
Week 5 Assignment
link. You will also be able to “View Rubric” for grading criteria from this area.
Next, from the Attach File area, click on the
Browse My Computer
button. Find the document you saved as “WK5Assgn+last name+first initial.(extension)” and click on
Open
.
If applicable: From the Plagiarism Tools area, click the checkbox for
I agree to submit my paper(s) to the Global Reference Database
.
Click on the
Submit
button to complete your submission.
Grading Criteria
To access your rubric:
Week 5 Assignment Rubric
Check Your Assignment Draft for Authenticity
To check your Assignment draft for authenticity:
Submit your Week 5 Assignment draft and review the originality report.
Submit Your Assignment by Day 7
To submit your Assignment:
Week 5 Assignment
Week 6: Applications of Philosophical Underpinnings
In this course, you have explored philosophical underpinnings of applied behavior analysis, specifically selectionism, determinism, empiricism, parsimony, and pragmatism. As a practitioner of applied behavior analysis, you may be asking the question, “Why should I care about theory and philosophy?”
This week, you will examine current behavior analytic literature containing an intervention to address an applied concern and identify the philosophical underpinnings represented in that literature PSYC 6717: Foundation and Philosophy of Behavior Analysis. You will also confirm your understanding of the philosophical underpinnings of applied behavior analysis in the Module 2 Test.
Learning Objectives
Students will:
Evaluate philosophical underpinnings of behavior analysis
Demonstrate understanding of philosophical underpinnings 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)
Chapter 2, “Basic Concepts and Principles” (pp. 25–46)
(Previously read in Week 1)
Fryling, M. J. (2013). Theory, philosophy, and the practice of applied behavior analysis.
European Journal of Behavior Analysis, 14
(1), 45–54. https://doi.org/10.1080/15021149.2013.11434444
Moxley, R. A. (2004). Pragmatic selectionism: The philosophy of behavior analysis.
The Behavior Analyst Today, 5
(1), 108–125. https://doi.org/10.1037/h0100137
Required Media
Walden University, LLC. (2021).
Applications of philosophical underpinnings
[Video]. Walden University Blackboard. https://class.waldenu.edu
Note
: This media program is approximately 39 minutes.
Accessible player
–Downloads–
Download Video w/CC
Download Audio
Download Transcript
Walden University, LLC. (2021).
Philosophical underpinnings of behavior analysis
[Interactive media]. Walden University Blackboard. https://class.waldenu.edu PSYC 6717: Foundation and Philosophy of Behavior Analysis
Discussion: Applications of Philosophical Underpinnings
Photo Credit: Sensay – stock.adobe.com
Have you ever wondered why it is relevant to understand the theory and philosophy that underpins the field of behavior analysis? In this week’s Learning Resources, Fryling (2013) discusses some ways behavior analytic theory and philosophy are relevant to the practice of applied behavior analysis. He focuses on its unique features of having a natural science perspective as well as comprehensive, integrated components. The natural science perspective of behavior analysis requires its constructs come from observable, socially significant events, as opposed to hypothetical constructs prevalent in mentalistic, traditional psychology and other helping professions.
Comprehensive, integrated components are a feature in behavior analysis demonstrated by the coordinated interdependence between behavior analytic theory and philosophy, experimental analysis of behavior (EAB), applied behavior analysis (ABA), and delivery of behavioral services.
Attention to the systemic, natural science approach and the coordinated integration of the components of behavior analysis are what distinguish it as a unique field and underpin the rationale for behavior analytic interventions. Because a behavior analyst will typically collaborate with other professionals who adhere to hypothetical constructs that can be anti-behavioral in nature, it is especially important that they be grounded in the theory and philosophy of behavioral analysis in order to effectively represent those ways of thinking about behavior PSYC 6717: Foundation and Philosophy of Behavior Analysis.
In his book,
Radical Behaviorism for ABA Practitioners,
James M. Johnston provides the following reasons ABA practitioners should understand the philosophical underpinnings of their field (Graff, 2014):
Practitioners work at the interface between science and society and, therefore, must be able to bridge the gap between scientific and everyday understandings of how behavior works.
Most people’s beliefs about how behavior works conflict with established scientific findings.
Practitioners must be able to convince clients and other professionals to support objectives and procedures shown in the ABA literature to be effective.
Understanding radical behaviorism helps ensure consistency between the field’s science and the resulting technology.
Understanding radical behaviorism helps avoid conceptual backsliding that might be encouraged by everyday language. (p. 3)
In this Discussion, you will identify an article you retrieved from the behavior analytic literature (2012 to the present) that describes an intervention to address an applied concern. For the article you select, you will then evaluate how each of the following philosophical underpinnings of behavior analysis are represented: selectionism, determinism, empiricism, parsimony, and pragmatism PSYC 6717: Foundation and Philosophy of Behavior Analysis.
Reference:
Graff, R. B. (2014). A review of
radical behaviorism for ABA practitioners by James M. Johnston [Review of the book
Radical behaviorism for ABA practitioners,
by J. M. Johnston].
APBA Reporter, 50,
1–3.
To Prepare
Review the Learning Resources for this week in order to gain an understanding of the following philosophical underpinnings of applied behavior analysis: selectionism, determinism, empiricism, parsimony, and pragmatism.
Identify an article retrieved from the behavior analytic literature (2012 to the present) that describes an intervention to address an applied concern.
Review the interactive media in the Learning Resources, “Philosophical Underpinnings of Behavior Analysis.”
By Day 4 of Week 6
Post
the title of the article you selected and provide a brief summary of the article. Next, include your evaluation of each philosophical underpinning of behavior analysis for the article, including selectionism, determinism, empiricism, parsimony, and pragmatism. Make sure to include a reference and link to your article. Use proper APA format and style.
Read
your colleagues’ postings.
Note:
For this discussion, you are required to complete your initial post before you will be able to view and respond to your colleagues’ postings. Begin by clicking on the
To Participate in this Discussion
link, then select
Create Thread
to complete your initial post. Remember, once you click on
Submit
, you cannot delete or edit your own posts, and cannot post anonymously. Please check your post carefully before clicking on
Submit
!
By Day 6 of Week 6
Respond
to at least
two
colleagues’ posts by expanding on each colleague’s explanation of how the article does or does not represent each of the philosophical underpinnings of behavior analysis. Provide examples.
Be sure to support your posts and responses with specific references to behavior-analytic theory and research. In addition to the Learning Resources, search the Walden Library and/or the internet for peer-reviewed articles to support your posts and responses. Use proper APA format and citations, including those in the Learning Resources.
Return
to this Discussion in a few days to read the responses to your initial posting. Note what you have learned and/or any insights that you have gained because of your colleagues’ comments. PSYC 6717: Foundation and Philosophy of Behavior Analysis
Submission and Grading Information
To access your rubric:
Week 6 Discussion Rubric
Post by Day 4 and Respond by Day 6 of Week 6
To participate in this Discussion:
Week 6 Discussion
Module 2 Test: Philosophical Underpinnings
Photo Credit: Alexey Novikov / Adobe Stock
Each module in this course provides fundamental information in a critical area of applied behavior analysis. At the end of each module, you will take a test to demonstrate your understanding of the topics covered.
This week’s Test assesses your knowledge of the assigned course readings and material regarding philosophical underpinnings of applied behavior analysis.
To Prepare
Review the Learning Resources for each week of Module 2 and consider how these resources will help guide you through your understanding of
philosophical underpinnings of applied behavior analysis as you prepare for your Module 2 Test.
Test Instructions
This Test consists of 50 multiple-choice or true/false questions.
Each question is worth one point. PSYC 6717: Foundation and Philosophy of Behavior Analysis
Questions are presented in a random order.
This Test allows you to go back to check or change your answers at any point during your allotted Test time.
You may use your course readings and other resources to help you. This Test is open book.
You will have unlimited time to finish this Test by the end of the week.
You must pass the Test at 90% for competency.
Once the Test has been submitted, the correct answer will be indicated when you have given an incorrect answer.
If you need to retake the Test, a new Test will be generated.
By Day 7 of Week 6
Submit
your Test by
Day 7
.
Submission Information
Complete the Test by Day 7 of Week 6
To complete your Test:
Module 2 Test
Week in Review
This week
was the final week of
Module 2: Philosophical Underpinnings
. In it, you examined the philosophical underpinnings of a behavior-analytic intervention designed to address an applied concern. You also completed your end-of-module Test, in which you confirmed your understanding of the philosophical underpinnings of applied behavior analysis.
Next week
, you will begin
Module 3: Concepts and Principles I
. You will examine terminology and concepts related to behavior and the environment, focusing specifically on examples of behavior, response, and response class from your own behavioral repertoire.
Next Module
To go to the next module:
Module 3
Week in Review
This week,
you analyzed the seven dimensions of behavior analysis proposed by Baer, Wolf, and Risley in their seminal article, “Some Current Dimensions of Applied Behavior Analysis,” and you provided examples of how each apply to the practice of behavior analysis. You also evaluated the relevance of the seven dimensions of behavior analysis to the practice of behavior analysis today PSYC 6717: Foundation and Philosophy of Behavior Analysis.
Next week
, you will examine how philosophical underpinnings of applied behavior analysis are represented in current behavior analytic literature. You will also confirm your understanding of the philosophical underpinnings of applied behavior analysis in the Module 2 Test.
Week 7: Behavior and Environment
Have you ever observed yourself, or someone you know, avoiding a task? Perhaps the task was avoided instead by texting a friend, getting something to eat, or hitting the snooze button on an alarm clock. Those behaviors represented specific instances of behavior, or responses. And while they took different forms, they all had a function; that is, they were all used to affect the environment in the same way—avoiding the task.
In this initial week of
Module 3: Concepts and Principles I
, you will examine terminology and concepts related to behavior and the environment, focusing specifically on examples of behavior, response, and response class from your own behavioral repertoire.
Learning Objectives
Students will:
Identify behavior, response, and response class in behavioral examples
Analyze real-life behaviors that represent a response class
Learning Resources
Required Readings
Cooper, J. O., Heron, T. E., & Heward, W. L. (2020).
Applied behavior analysis
(3rd ed.). Pearson.
Chapter 2, “Basic Concepts and Principles” (pp. 25–46)
(Previously read in Week 1)
Iversen, I. H. (2013). Response classes: What are they, where do they come from, and where do they go?
European Journal of Behavior Analysis, 14
(1), 57–68. https://doi.org/10.1080/15021149.2013.11434445
Required Media
Walden University, LLC. (2021).
Behavior and environment
[Video]. Walden University Blackboard. https://class.waldenu.edu
Note
: This media program is approximately 43 minutes.
Accessible player
–Downloads–
Download Video w/CC
Download Audio
Download Transcript
Walden University, LLC. (2021).
Response and response class
[Interactive media]. Walden University Blackboard. https://class.waldenu.edu
Discussion: Behavior and Environment
Photo Credit: Joaquin Corbalan – stock.adobe.com
“Behavior analysis is characterized by a functional analysis of the effects of the behavior on the environment. A response class is a group of responses with the same function (that is, each response in the group produces the same effect on the environment)” (Cooper et al., 2020, p. 27) PSYC 6717: Foundation and Philosophy of Behavior Analysis.
The infographic below provides three examples of response class. For example: scream, throw, hit head, and name call are specific instances of behavior, or
responses
. Because they are a group of responses intended to produce the same effect on the environment—attention—the
response class
is attention. PSYC 6717: Foundation and Philosophy of Behavior Analysis
In this Discussion, you will consider your own behavioral repertoire and identify and define examples of behavior, response, and response class.
Reference:
Cooper, J. O., Heron, T. E., & Heward, W. L. (2020).
Applied behavior analysis
(3rd ed.). Pearson.
To Prepare
Review the Learning Resources for this week, including the required weekly media, to gain an understanding of the relationship between behavior and environment, and related terminology.
Consider your own behavioral repertoire and identify examples of behavior, response, and response class. Review the interactive media in the Learning Resources, “Response and Response Class.”
By Day 4 of Week 7
Post
a definition and an example of each of the following from your own behavioral repertoire:
Behavior
Response
Response Class
Read
your colleagues’ postings.
Note:
For this discussion, you are required to complete your initial post before you will be able to view and respond to your colleagues’ postings. Begin by clicking on the
To Participate in this Discussion
link, then select
Create Thread
to complete your initial post. Remember, once you click on
Submit
, you cannot delete or edit your own posts, and cannot post anonymously. Please check your post carefully before clicking on
Submit
!
By Day 6 of Week 7
Respond
to at least
two
colleagues’ posts by expanding on their examples of behavior, response, and response class.
Be sure to support your posts and responses with specific references to behavior-analytic theory and research. In addition to the Learning Resources, search the Walden Library and/or internet for peer-reviewed articles to support your posts and responses. Use proper APA format and citations, including those in the Learning Resources.
Return
to this Discussion in a few days to read the responses to your initial posting. Note what you have learned and/or any insights that you have gained because of your colleagues’ comments.
Submission and Grading Information
To access your rubric:
Week 7 Discussion Rubric
Post by Day 4 and Respond by Day 6 of Week 7
To participate in this Discussion:
Week 7 Discussion
Assignment: Response Class
Photo Credit: hadjanebia / Adobe Stock
In this week’s Discussion, you identified and defined examples of behavior, response, and response class from your own behavioral repertoire.
For this Assignment, using your behavioral repertoire, you will further explore these concepts by identifying another response class and five corresponding responses. Additionally, you will analyze which of the five responses you use most frequently to produce the same effect on the environment (i.e., response class) and why.
To Prepare:
Consider behaviors in your own life in which you engage on a regular basis.
Assignment
(1–2 pages)
Identify a behavior in your own life in which you engage on a regular basis.
Identify at least five different responses that can lead to the same result.
Which of these do you engage in most frequently to achieve that result? Why?
PSYC 6717: Foundation and Philosophy of Behavior Analysis
Be sure to support your Assignment with specific references to behavior-analytic theory and research. In addition to the Learning Resources, search the Walden Library and/or the internet for peer-reviewed articles to support your Assignment. Use proper APA format and citations, including those in the Learning Resources.
By Day 7 of Week 7
Submit
your Assignment.
Submission and Grading Information
To submit your completed Assignment for review and grading, do the following:
Please save your Assignment using the naming convention “WK7Assgn+last name+first initial.(extension)” as the name.
Click on the
Week 7 Assignment Rubric
to review the Grading Criteria for the Assignment.
Click on the
Week 7 Assignment
link. You will also be able to “View Rubric” for grading criteria from this area.
Next, from the Attach File area, click on the
Browse My Computer
button. Find the document you saved as “WK7Assgn+last name+first initial.(extension)” and click on
Open
.
If applicable: From the Plagiarism Tools area, click the checkbox for
I agree to submit my paper(s) to the Global Reference Database
. PSYC 6717: Foundation and Philosophy of Behavior Analysis
Click on the
Submit
button to complete your submission.
Grading Criteria
To access your rubric:
Week 7 Assignment Rubric
Check Your Assignment Draft for Authenticity
To check your Assignment draft for authenticity:
Submit your Week 7 Assignment draft and review the originality report.
Submit Your Assignment by Day 7
To submit your Assignment:
Week 7 Assignment
Week in Review
This week
was the firstweek of
Module 3: Concepts and Principles I
. You examined terminology and concepts related to behavior and the environment, focusing specifically on examples of behavior, response, and response class from your own behavioral repertoire.
Next week
, you will examine the associative learning processes of operant conditioning and respondent (classical) conditioning. You will consider behaviors for which each might be used most appropriately to understand and address a client’s behavior PSYC 6717: Foundation and Philosophy of Behavior Analysis.
Next Week
Week 8: Respondent and Operant Conditioning
Among the foundational concepts of applied behavior analysis (ABA) are respondent (classical) conditioning and operant conditioning. While operant conditioning clearly dominates the ABA field, there are also appropriate uses of respondent (classical) conditioning. In both cases, the behavior analyst seeks to manipulate the environment in order to effect behavior change—replacing undesired behaviors with desirable ones.
This week, you will examine operant and respondent (classical) conditioning and how each can be used to establish and modify behaviors. In addition, you will analyze the role of respondent (classical) conditioning in the practice of behavior analysis.
Learning Objectives
Students will:
Evaluate operant and respondent conditioning for selected behaviors
Analyze the role of respondent (classical) conditioning in the practice of behavior analysis
Learning Resources
Required Readings
Cooper, J. O., Heron, T. E., & Heward, W. L. (2020).
Applied behavior analysis
(3rd ed.). Pearson.
Chapter 2, “Basic Concepts and Principles” (pp. 25–46)
(Previously read in Week 1)
Harris, B. (2002). What ever happened to Little Albert? In W. E. Pickren & D. A. Dewsbury (Eds.),
Evolving perspectives on the history of psychology
(pp. 237–254). American Psychological Association.
Skinner, B. F. (1998). The experimental analysis of operant behavior: A history. In R. W. Rieber & K. Salzinger (Eds.),
Psychology: Theoretical-historical perspectives
(2nd ed., pp. 289–299). American Psychological Association.
Required Media
Walden University, LLC. (2021).
Respondent and operant conditioning
[Video]. Walden University Blackboard. https://class.waldenu.edu
Note
: This media program is approximately 43 minutes.
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Walden University, LLC. (2021).
Respondent or operant conditioning?
[Interactive media]. Walden University Blackboard. https://class.waldenu.edu
Discussion: Respondent and Operant Conditioning
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Operant and respondent (classical) conditioning are both used to establish and modify behaviors. These concepts originated in the field of behavioral psychology and share similarities and differences. Perhaps the clearest example of the difference between the two concepts is whether the behavior to be modified is automatic (i.e., involuntary) or under the subject’s conscious control (i.e., voluntary).
A thorough understanding of the similarities and differences between respondent (classical) conditioning and operant conditioning can provide you clarity about which would be most appropriate to apply in a given learning situation.
For this Discussion, you will contrast operant conditioning and respondent (classical) conditioning in the acquisition of a behavior and a rationale for the use of each. You will also identify behaviors that could be established using each technique.
To Prepare
Review the Learning Resources for this week.
Contrast operant conditioning and respondent conditioning in the acquisition of a behavior and consider why each works with some behaviors and not with others PSYC 6717: Foundation and Philosophy of Behavior Analysis.
Select two behaviors, one that could be established through operant conditioning and one that could be established through respondent conditioning.
Review the interactive media in the Learning Resources, “Respondent or Operant Conditioning?”
By Day 4 of Week 8
Post
an explanation contrasting operant conditioning and respondent conditioning in the acquisition of a behavior. Be sure to identify why each works with some behaviors and not with others. Then, explain why each of the two behaviors you chose is more appropriate for respondent or operant conditioning.
Read
your colleagues’ postings.
Note:
For this discussion, you are required to complete your initial post before you will be able to view and respond to your colleagues’ postings. Begin by clicking on the
To Participate in this Discussion
link, then select
Create Thread
to complete your initial post. Remember, once you click on
Submit
, you cannot delete or edit your own posts, and cannot post anonymously. Please check your post carefully before clicking on
Submit
!
By Day 6 of Week 8
Respond
to at least
two
colleagues’ posts by expanding on each of their explanations of how their chosen behaviors are more appropriate for respondent or operant conditioning.
Be sure to support your posts and responses with specific references to behavior-analytic theory and research. In addition to the Learning Resources, search the Walden Library and/or the internet for peer-reviewed articles to support your posts and responses. Use proper APA format and citations, including those in the Learning Resources.
Return
to this Discussion in a few days to read the responses to your initial posting. Note what you have learned and/or any insights that you have gained because of your colleagues’ comments. PSYC 6717: Foundation and Philosophy of Behavior Analysis.
Submission and Grading Information
To access your rubric:
Week 8 Discussion Rubric
Post by Day 4 and Respond by Day 6 of Week 8
To participate in this Discussion:
Week 8 Discussion
Assignment: Application of Respondent (Classical) Conditioning
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Applied behavior analysis (ABA) is heavily influenced by operant conditioning. The vast majority of your curriculum in ABA focuses on operant conditioning and its applications. However, respondent (classical) conditioning also has its appropriate applications in ABA.
The behaviorist assumptions that all learning occurs through observable interactions with the environment and the environment shapes behavior set the stage for respondent (classical) conditioning.
Perhaps you, or someone you know, was the victim of bullying at school. The bullying often creates emotional distress for the victim. Using the behaviorist assumptions, bullying is the interaction with the environment and the emotional distress is the behavior, or reflex, shaped by the environment. Classical conditioning involves placing a neutral signal before a naturally occurring reflex. PSYC 6717: Foundation and Philosophy of Behavior Analysis If a neutral stimulus (e.g., school) is paired with the bullying, school will come to evoke the emotional distress. At this point, the once neutral stimulus becomes known as the conditioned stimulus and evokes a learned, conditioned response of emotional distress.
Quantifying and collecting data about observable behaviors can be used to identify effective, evidence-based therapeutic interventions that can be helpful in changing undesirable behaviors. For this Assignment, you will evaluate the role of respondent (classical) conditioning and how it might be used in practice to better understand a client’s behavior.
To Prepare:
Review this week’s Learning Resources to gain an understanding of respondent (classical) conditioning.
Consider how respondent (classical) conditioning might be used to better understand client behavior.
Assignment
(1–2 pages)
Why is it important to
not forget the role of respondent (classical) conditioning as a practicing behavior analyst?
Give an original example of how respondent (classical) conditioning could be used in your practice to better understand a client’s behavior.
ORDER A PLAGIARISM-FREE PAPER
Be sure to support your Assignment with specific references to behavior-analytic theory and research. In addition to the Learning Resources, search the Walden Library and/or the internet for peer-reviewed articles to support your Assignment. Use proper APA format and citations, including those in the Learning Resources. PSYC 6717: Foundation and Philosophy of Behavior Analysis.
By Day 7 of Week 8
Submit
your Assignment.
Submission and Grading Information
To submit your completed Assignment for review and grading, do the following:
Please save your Assignment using the naming convention “WK8Assgn+last name+first initial.(extension)” as the name.
Click on the
Week 8 Assignment Rubric
to review the Grading Criteria for the Assignment.
Click on the
Week 8 Assignment
link. You will also be able to “View Rubric” for grading criteria from this area.
Next, from the Attach File area, click on the
Browse My Computer
button. Find the document you saved as “WK8Assgn+last name+first initial.(extension)” and click on
Open
.
If applicable: From the Plagiarism Tools area, click the checkbox for
I agree to submit my paper(s) to the Global Reference Database
.
Click on the
Submit
button to complete your submission.
Grading Criteria
To access your rubric:
Week 8 Assignment Rubric
Check Your Assignment Draft for Authenticity
To check your Assignment draft for authenticity:
Submit your Week 8 Assignment draft and review the originality report.
Submit Your Assignment by Day 7
To submit your Assignment:
Week 8 Assignment
Week in Review
This week
was the second week of
Module 3: Concepts and Principles I
. You examined the associative learning processes of operant conditioning and respondent (classical) conditioning. PSYC 6717: Foundation and Philosophy of Behavior Analysis Additionally, you considered behaviors for which each might be used most appropriately to understand and address a client’s behavior.
Next week
, you will complete
Module 3
. You will evaluate a problematic contingency scenario and propose a solution to address the problem. In addition, you will demonstrate your understanding of
concepts and principles of behavior by taking the Module Test. PSYC 6717: Foundation and Philosophy of Behavior Analysis