Syllabus
The course is an introduction to Applied Behavior Analysis. Applied behavior analysis (ABA) is the science of applying experimentally derived principles of behavior to improve socially significant behavior. ABA takes what we know about behavior and uses it to bring about positive change (Applied). Behaviors are defined in observable and measurable terms in order to assess change over time (Behavior). The behavior is analyzed within the environment to determine what factors are influencing the behavior (Analysis).
Its purpose is to give students of sociology strong basis for understanding and interpretation of human behavior in context of social structures.
In order to complete the course, students will be obliged to (1) pass a test and (2) write a case study of behavior modification which they have carried out.
* Main topics
Theoretical basis of human behavior (description, explanation, prediction) and their frameworks (behaviorism, cognitive-behavioral and cognitive approach) - app. 30% of the lectures
Overview of the scientific field - review of tools, methods for behavioral change/modification - app. 20% of the lectures
Application (training and demonstration of selected methods) - app. 50% of the lectures
* Specific topics
Behavior - Definitions and basic concepts
Theory of learning (Classical and operant conditioning, Reinforcement, Punishment, Extinction)
Measuring behavior
Analyzing behavior change
Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA)
Cognitive approach
Techniques related to ABA research
Video modeling
Interventions
Effectiveness of behavioral change
Criticism of described approaches
Application
* Reading
Bailey, J., Burch, M. (2006) How to Think Like a Behavior Analyst. Lawrence Erlbaum Assoc Inc (1 edition). ISBN: 0805858881
Cooper, J., et al (2007). Applied Behavior Analysis (2nd Edition). Prentice Hall (2 edition). ISBN: 0131421131
Chance, P. (2006). First Course in Applied Behavior Analysis. Waveland Pr Inc. ISBN: 1577664728
Annotation
The course is an introduction to Applied Behavior Analysis. Applied behavior analysis (ABA) is the science of applying experimentally derived principles of behavior to improve socially significant behavior. ABA takes what we know about behavior and uses it to bring about positive change (Applied). Behaviors are defined in observable and measurable terms in order to assess change over time (Behavior). The behavior is analyzed within the environment to determine what factors are influencing the behavior (Analysis).
Its purpose is to give students of sociology strong basis for understanding and interpretation of human behavior in context of social structures.
Target population: bachelor and master students, international students
Requirements: English language (fluent)
Pre-requisites: none