Overview of Applied Behavior Analysis Program

advertisement
NEW – 2011 - FALL
Graduate Program in Education
Applied Behavior Analysis Program
Two Locations for ABA Program:
Burlington Campus, Burlington, MA
Longmeadow Campus, Longmeadow MA
5-15-11
1
TABLE OF CONTENTS*
5-15-11
Biography of Program Coordinator
3
Overview of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Program
4
What is ABA?
5
Application Form
6
Recommendation Forms
12
Course Descriptions
16
ABA Program Requirement Form
18
Questions and Answers
19
2
Dr. Susan A. Ainsleigh
Applied Behavior Analysis Program
Bay Path College
Program Coordinator
Dr. Susan A. Ainsleigh, a Board Certified Behavior Analyst® and a Massachusetts licensed
teacher in special education, comes to Bay Path College from her most recent position as
Coordinator of SPED/ Autism Major (Dar Al Hekma College) and Consulting Behavior Analyst/
Director of Applied Behavior Analysis Division - Jeddah Institute for Speech and Hearing in
Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. In these positions, Dr. Ainsleigh has focused on the global dissemination
of the science of applied behavior analysis and the preparation of practicing behavioral analysts
world-wide.
Prior to her work in Jeddah, Dr. Ainsleigh was a full time Assistant Professor in the Department
of Special Education and Applied Behavior Analysis at Simmons College in Boston, MA. At
Simmons College, Dr. Ainsleigh was responsible for the development and coordination of
supervision for behavior analysts-in-training.
Dr. Ainsleigh earned a Bachelor’s degree from Villanova University, a Master’s degree from
Simmons College and an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership from Johnson & Wales University. She
has worked in public and private schools, residential settings, and home-based settings for over
twenty years teaching children and adults with a variety of educational challenges.
Dr. Ainsleigh’s research interests and professional expertise are in the areas of autism and
related disorders, applications of applied behavior analysis in higher education, professional
supervision and mentoring of teachers and behavior analysts in general and special education,
and the dissemination of the science of ABA in international settings. She has consulted
nationally and internationally on issues related to autism, instructional design, and individualized
program development.
Dr. Ainsleigh recently developed the first bachelor level course sequence in applied behavior
analysis in the Middle East, and is the founder and developer of the first applied setting
offering behavior analytic treatment for children with autism in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Her numerous professional presentations include papers, publications, workshops and
symposiums in the United States and world-wide. Dr. Ainsleigh holds membership in the
International Association for Behavior Analysis, the AAC & U, and Defeat Autism Now (DAN)!
5-15-11
3
Overview of Applied Behavior Analysis Program
Graduate Program in Special Education -- Applied Behavior Analysis
The demand for teachers and practitioners trained in evidence-based practices in education has
grown (Hammersley, 2001). The Bay Path College Graduate Program in Special Education is
committed to educating and training teachers in the use of practices supported by scientific
evidence. Applied behavior analysis (ABA) and its application to education and special education
provides teachers with a theoretical and practical scientific framework and a professional
discipline for the selection, implementation, and monitoring of instructional strategies. The
Graduate ABA Program and course sequence at Bay Path has been designed to prepare teachers
to design and implement instruction using the principles of ABA.
Capitalizing on the strengths and growth of the graduate special education program, this new
graduate program will offer the option to fulfill the requirements for certification as a Board
Certified Behavior Analyst® (BCBA®). The program will provide a carefully crafted sequence
of courses, pre-approved by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB©), the non-profit
organization overseeing the credentialing needs of behavior analysts internationally. These
courses instruct students in the theoretical underpinning and practical application of the
science of ABA, with a special focus on the implementation of ABA methodologies in classroom
and special education settings. Additionally, this program includes an option for the completion
of experiential learning requirements necessary to achieve certification (1500 hours of
supervised, independent fieldwork), with individually assigned, qualified supervisors employed by
BCP. The 36-credit program is designed for a student to take a minimum of two courses over 5
semesters for a total of 36 credits.
The program is beginning in the fall of 2011 and will be available both in Longmeadow and
Burlington for the fall 2011 semester pending sufficient course enrollment.
Upon completion of the program, a student will earn either a MSED degree or an EDS degree,
and the student will be eligible to initiate the application for certification. (Note: the student
will not be a professionally certified BCBA until he/she has been recommended by BPC to the
BCBA Board and has completed and passed the BCBA certification test available through the
Behavior Analyst Certification Board).
What is Applied Behavior Analysis?
Behavior analysis is the scientific study of behavior and the variables and factors which are
responsible for the improvement in behavior. This knowledge is critical to teachers everywhere,
as teachers are primarily concerned with the improvement of skills to a socially significant
4
5-15-11
degree. Applied behavior analysis (ABA) is both a science and a professional discipline. The
application of the principles of behavior to education has been widely shown to result in an
improvement in learning, an increase in social competence, and an improvement in fluency,
independence, and generality of skills (Moran & Mallott, 2004).
A recent report from the Maine Administrators of Services for Children with Disabilities
(MADSEC Autism Task Force, 2000) has compiled many research studies documenting the
effectiveness of ABA strategies across a wide range of:
 populations (children and adults with mental illness, developmental disabilities and
learning disorders);
 interventionists (parents, teachers and staff);
 settings (schools, homes, institutions, group homes, hospitals and business offices); and
 behaviors (language; social, academic, leisure and functional life skills; aggression, selfinjury, oppositional and stereotyped behaviors).
Possible Course Sequence*
Semester One
SPE 601
SPE 602
Semester Two
SPE 603
SPE 608 – mentoring – 5 credits
Semester Three
SPE 604
SPE 608 – mentoring – 5 credits
Semester Four
SPE 605
SPE 608 – mentoring – 5 credits
Semester Five
SPE 606
SPE 607 – Test prep/group supervision
APPLICATION FOR ADMISSION
5-15-11
5
BAY PATH COLLEGE-BCBA PROGRAM
Program of Choice
Ed. S. -- Specialist in Education with supervised mentoring (36 credits)
M. S. Ed. -- Master of Science in Education with supervised mentoring (36 credits)
Ed. S. -- Specialist in Education Non-Licensure with NO supervised mentoring (36 credits)
M. S. Ed. -- Master of Science in Education with NO supervised mentoring (36 credits)
Other:
Location
Longmeadow
Burlington
______ _____ ____ ____ _____ ____ _____ ____ _____ ____ _____ ____ ____ __
Name
(Dr., Mr., Mrs., Ms., Miss)
LAST
FIRST
MIDDLE INITIAL
Are your academic records listed under any other name?
If yes, please print
Mailing Address
Telephone Numbers (
Yes
LAST
STREET ADDRESS
No
FIRST
MIDDLE INITIAL
CITY
)
(
STATE
)
HOME
ZIP
(
)
BUSINESS
Email: Home
CELL
Work
Date of Birth________________________________
Citizenship Status
U.S. Citizen
J Visa*
F Visa*
Visa not yet obtained*
Male
Female
Tourist or other
Permanent Resident
* International students must submit proof of health insurance, official TOEFL test scores and all official transcripts.
International students are required to complete the statement of financial support.
Review my application for:
Degree status
Visitor Status - credits can be transferred to home school
(Note: Acceptance into the program is required for visitor status)
Have you previously applied to a Bay Path College graduate program?
How would you describe yourself? (optional)
African American
American Indian or Alaskan Native
Hispanic American
Asian or Pacific Islander
Yes
No
White/Non Hispanic
Other
Educational History
List in chronological order all colleges, universities and professional schools attended:
5-15-11
6
NAME AND LOCATION
DEGREE (e.g., B.S., B.A.)
DATE AWARDED
MAJOR
GPA
PLEASE CHECK ONE:
All of the listed schools have been contacted as of
to send official transcripts directly to the Graduate school.
All required transcripts are enclosed with this application in sealed envelopes.
______ _____ ____ ____ _____ ____ _____ ____ _____ ____ _____ ____ ____ __
Employment
List your employment record for the past five years, beginning with the most recent first:
EMPLOYER
ADDRESS
TITLE/DEPARTMENT
\
Letters of Recommendation
Please list below who you have asked to submit a recommendation form or letter for your application:
NAME
ADDRESS
TITLE
TELEPHONE NUMBER
Will these recommendations be sent directly to the Graduate School?
Yes
No, recommendations are enclosed with application in sealed envelopes.
Goals
In a brief statement (one or two sentences), state your career goals related to this graduate program.
Skills
Please rate your skills in the following areas:
5-15-11
7
EXCELLENT
GOOD
AVERAGE
POOR
UNABLE TO
JUDGE
WRITTEN COMMUNICATION
SKILLS
ORAL COMMUNICATION SKILLS
QUANTITATIVE SKILLS
PROBLEM-SOLVING SKILLS
DECISION-MAKING SKILLS
COMPUTER SKILLS
ABILITY TO WORK WITH OTHERS
Additional Information
Is there any additional information that we should know in considering your application for admission for graduate
study at Bay Path College? If yes, please provide:
I hereby certify that the information which I have given on this application form is accurate and complete. I
understand that any misrepresentation of fact is just cause for cancellation of my application or for dismissal
after admission.
All courses being presented for review for transfer must be presented at time of application.
I am also aware that I will not be a professionally certified BCBA until I have been recommended by BPC to the
BACB and have completed and passed the BCBA certification test available through the Behavior Analyst
Certification Board.
Signature____________________________________________Date_________________________
Applications will be considered on a first-come first-serve basis. Please collect all the materials and submit
materials at one time. To apply to this program:
5-15-11
8
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
Complete the application form.
Include a $45.00 application fee. Please make check out to Bay Path College.
Provide two professional recommendations – forms attached.
Request that all official transcripts from regionally accredited college(s) be sent directly to you.
Transcripts must be in a sealed signed envelope. Student must have an undergraduate cumulative grade
point average of 3.0 or higher.
Submit an original essay on the topic: “How the graduate degree will help me achieve my goals.”
Attach a current resume.
Sign and return the Program in BCBA Requirement Form included in this packet.
Submit copy of MTEL results—optional.
Submit a copy of your current teaching license—optional.
Return the completed application materials to:
BAY PATH COLLEGE
BURLINGTON CAMPUS
123 Cambridge Street
Burlington, MA 01803
781-272-0112 - phone
781-272-0112 – fax
BAY PATH COLLEGE
LONGMEADOW CAMPUS
588 Longmeadow Street
Longmeadow, MA 01106
413-565-1332 - phone
413-565-1250 - fax
11. Upon receipt of completed packet, individual interviews will be schedule with program administrator.
It is the policy of Bay Path College to provide equal opportunity in all educational programs and activities, admission of students
and conditions of employment for all qualified individuals regardless of race, color, sex, religion, age, disability, national origin,
and/or sexual preference.
To schedule a phone appointment regarding questions about this program, please contact Dr. Liz Fleming at 781272-6588 to set up an appointment with the graduate program director in special education.
BAY PATH COLLEGE – ABA Program
5-15-11
9
Graduate Program Recommendation Form
To be completed by applicant:
Name
(Dr., Mr., Mrs., Ms., Miss)
LAST
FIRST
MIDDLE INITIAL
I hereby waive any rights to examine this recommendation form. I understand that Bay Path College will hold this
information in confidence.
Yes
No
Applicant’s Signature
Please select your degree preference:
Ed.S. – Specialist in Education with supervised mentoring (36 credits)
M.S.Ed. – Master of Science in Education with supervised mentoring (36 credits)
Ed.S. – Specialist in Education with NO supervised mentoring (36 credits)
M.S.Ed. – Master of Science in Education with NO supervised mentoring (36 credits)
Other:
To be completed by recommender:
Name of Recommender
Title
Organization
Address
1. How long and in what capacity have you know the applicant?
2. Are you aware of the applicant’s academic record?
Yes
No
3. Do you feel that the applicant is prepared academically for the challenges of the graduate program?
Yes
No
4. Do you feel that the applicant is prepared emotionally for the challenges of the graduate program?
Yes
No
5. Please rate the applicant in each of the following areas
Excellent
Good
Written communication skills
Oral communication skills
Quantitative skills
Problem-solving skills
Decision-making skills
Computer skills
Ability to work with others
Average
Poor
Unable to judge
6. Do you consider the applicant’s achievements thus far to be a true indication of his/her ability?
5-15-11
10
Yes
No
Please explain your response
7. Summary evaluation. Please indicate your overall recommendation for this applicant
Highly recommend
Recommend with reservations
Recommend
Do not recommend
8. Please provide a written evaluation of the applicant for the Graduate Admissions Committee. Your candid
assessment of the applicant’s potential for success both academically and professionally would be most helpful to
the committee in its selection process. You may use this sheet or attach your evaluation.
Recommender’s Signature _________________________________________Date________________
Please send the recommendation form to the applicant in a sealed envelope.
5-15-11
11
BAY PATH COLLEGE – ABA Program
Graduate Program Recommendation Form
To be completed by applicant:
Name
(Dr., Mr., Mrs., Ms., Miss)
LAST
FIRST
MIDDLE INITIAL
I hereby waive any rights to examine this recommendation form. I understand that Bay Path College will hold this
information in confidence.
Yes
No
Applicant’s Signature
Please select your degree preference:
Ed.S. – Specialist in Education with supervised mentoring (36 credits)
M.S.Ed. – Master of Science in Education with supervised mentoring (36 credits)
Ed.S. – Specialist in Education with NO supervised mentoring (36 credits)
M.S.Ed. – Master of Science in Education with NO supervised mentoring (36 credits)
Other:
To be completed by recommender:
Name of Recommender
Title
Organization
Address
1. How long and in what capacity have you know the applicant?
2. Are you aware of the applicant’s academic record?
Yes
No
3. Do you feel that the applicant is prepared academically for the challenges of the graduate program?
Yes
No
4. Do you feel that the applicant is prepared emotionally for the challenges of the graduate program?
Yes
No
5. Please rate the applicant in each of the following areas
Excellent
Good
Written communication skills
Oral communication skills
Quantitative skills
Problem-solving skills
Decision-making skills
Computer skills
Ability to work with others
5-15-11
Average
Poor
Unable to judge
12
6. Do you consider the applicant’s achievements thus far to be a true indication of his/her ability?
Yes
No
Please explain your response
7. Summary evaluation. Please indicate your overall recommendation for this applicant
Highly recommend
Recommend with reservations
Recommend
Do not recommend
8. Please provide a written evaluation of the applicant for the Graduate Admissions Committee. Your candid
assessment of the applicant’s potential for success both academically and professionally would be most helpful to
the committee in its selection process. You may use this sheet or attach your evaluation.
Recommender’s Signature _________________________________________Date________________
Please send the recommendation form to the applicant in a sealed envelope.
5-15-11
13
BPC - Course Descriptions for ABA Courses
ABA 1: The Science of ABA: Concepts and Principles
Bay Path College
SPE 601 – The Science of ABA: Concepts and Principles – 3 credits
Introducing the philosophical assumptions and dimensions of the science of applied behavior analysis, including determinism,
empiricism, parsimony, selectionism, pragmatism, and lawfulness of behavior. Students define key terms related to applied
behavior analysis, the scientific principles of behavior, and behavioral technologies. Students differentiate between
environmental and mentalistic explanations of behavior, and between conceptual, experimental, and applied analyses of behavior.
SPE 602 – Ethical Practice in Applied Behavior Analysis - 3 credits
An intensive, practical review of the ethical, legal, and professional issues in the field of applied behavior analysis. Core Ethical
Principles in the discipline of psychology, adopted by the Association for Behavior Analysis-International (ABAI) to guide
professional practice in the specialty are introduced, with a focus on practical applications of these principles in educational
settings where the discipline of applied behavior analysis is practiced. Using case studies interwoven with scientific literature
from the field of applied behavior analysis, students demonstrate the ability to apply the Behavior Analyst Certification Board
Guidelines for Responsible© conduct in real-life educational contexts.
SPE 603 - Research Methods in ABA – 3 credits
This course focuses on the measurement of behavior and the analysis of intervention effect using single-subject experimental
design. Procedures for collection and display of behavioral data are demonstrated, practiced, and examined for reliability,
validity, efficiency, and relevance to a variety of settings, with a focus on educational environments. Individualized
measurement procedures are developed and implemented using a variety of single-subject design formats, and the contribution
of single-subject research design to education, clinical practice, and scientific inquiry is examined. Ethical considerations of
experimental analysis are examined.
SPE 604 - Behavioral Assessment and On-Going Evaluation – 3 credits
The process of identifying behaviors targeted for change and the use of behavioral assessment techniques to identify and
analyze behavior-environment relations, for the purpose of developing successful, functionally-based intervention strategies.
Methodologies of descriptive assessment and functional analysis, applied to both challenging problem behaviors and academic
learning situations. Use of many practical behaviorally-based assessment tools, including checklists and rating scales, structured
observation tools, and curricular assessments.
SPE 605 - Interventions & Behavior Change Procedures – 3 credits
Students implement behaviorally-based strategies to establish, strengthen, and weaken target behaviors. Fundamental
elements of behavior change are reviewed, with a focus on selecting evidence-based tactics that utilize basic principles of
behavior (reinforcement, punishment, extinction, and stimulus control) and utilizing appropriate parameters and schedules of
reinforcement and punishment. Various procedures combining fundamental behavior principles and tactic are reviewed, modeled,
practiced, and demonstrated to mastery and fluency. Basic behavior analytic skills of measurement and analysis are practiced in
the context of utilizing behavior change procedures.
SPE 606 - Behavior Change Systems in Education – 3 credits
A system is a combination of independent but interrelated components comprising a unified whole. This class presents
behavioral systems – methods, tactics, and models – designed to combine specific behavior change procedures in an effective
manner to achieve success in the classroom setting. Procedures for evaluating the effectiveness of behavior change procedures
and systems are practiced, and systems for supervision and competency-based training of those responsible for implementing
and documenting programming and services are examined.
SPE 607 – Test prep and Group Supervision – 3 credits
SPE 608 – Mentoring – 15 credits (Three semesters of 5 credits for a total of 15 credits)
Above course/credit/descriptions options subject to change.
5-15-11
14
2011-2012 Program in ABA Requirement Form for Graduate Students
This form confirms your understanding of the program requirements and policies in the ABA
program. Please read carefully, sign below, and return this form to the graduate admissions
department.

The student must earn grades of B or better in all courses in the program. If a student
earns a B- in a course, the student has the option to retake the course. A grade of C+ or
below will cause an automatic withdrawal from the program.

The student seeking the ABA credential must also take and pass the qualifying examination
administered by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board.

Fieldwork is a full-time 52 week assignment. Students must complete a CORI (Criminal
Offense Records Investigation) and any other requirements as mandated by a school
district.

Attendance Policy: I understand that there is an attendance policy and that for every hour
of class that I miss, two points will be subtracted from my final course grade. In case of
inclement weather on Friday or Saturday, class may be held on Sunday.

Requirements in the ABA graduate program are subject to modification due to changes as
stipulated by BACB and/or Bay Path College.

A student will be eligible to initiate the application for certification when s/he has
successfully passed all required components including all degree requirements (coursework
and mentoring), holds a 3.0 cumulative grade point average, has a grade of B or better in
every course, has completed the required coursework, has been recommended by BPC to the
BACB, and has passed the BCBA certification test available through the BACB .
Student’s Signature:
_____________________________________________Date:_________________
Student’s Name
(Print):_____________________________________________________________
5-15-11
15
Questions and Answers….Information about the Bay Path College
ABA Graduate Program
1. When does this program begin?
Classes will be starting in fall 2011!
2. How much does each 3-credit course cost?
The cost for each course for 2010-2011 is only $560.00 per credit. In general, there are no additional fees, no
parking fees, and no additional registration fees. The only other BPC expense would be your books for each course.
3. Would I be able to apply for a federal loan?
If you are taking a minimum of two courses (or 6 credits) a semester (and this program is designed for this to
happen), then you are eligible to apply for a loan. If you have any questions regarding the completion of these
forms or require information regarding financial aid, please call Stephanie King in our Student Financial Aid
Services Office at either 413-565-1261, or 800-782-7284, X1261 or email finaid@baypath.edu.
4. How do I apply for a federal loan?
Your entire graduate degree can be funded by a Federal Stafford Loan!
To be considered for a Stafford Loan, please fill out the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). Apply
for your PIN number at www.pin.ed.gov This PIN number serves as your signature on your FAFSA. Once you
receive your pin, complete the FAFSA on-line at www.FAFSA.ed.gov. The Bay Path College code is 002122.
Application Deadline
All financial aid applications must be submitted and received in the Student Financial Services Office at least two
weeks prior to the semester for which you will enroll. Please note - the FAFSA should be completed at least three
weeks prior to the start of the semester to ensure the processed application is received by Bay Path College within
two weeks prior to the start of the semester.
Financial Aid Available
Federal Subsidized and Unsubsidized Stafford Loans
These loans are available to graduate students carrying at least six credits or more per semester. Eligibility is
based on the financial aid application materials submitted to the Student Financial Services Office.


A Subsidized Stafford loan is based on need and the interest is paid by the Federal Government while
the student is in attendance.
An Unsubsidized Stafford Loan is not based on need and the interest is paid by the student while in
attendance.
The total maximum Subsidized and Unsubsidized Stafford Loan eligibility for graduate students per academic year
is $20,500. The Student Financial Services Office determines the maximum eligibility for student loans.
Please note: The lender may deduct origination fees from the face value of the loan before the loan funds are sent
to the College to pay the tuition account. Student loan borrowers must complete a Stafford Loan Master
Promissory Note along with Entrance Counseling, (your rights and responsibilities as a loan borrower), before the
federal Stafford Loan will be processed. Information regarding the Maser Promissory Note and Entrance
Counseling will be provided on the financial aid award letter mailed to you.
5-15-11
16
Employer Reimbursement
Any student receiving reimbursement from their employer may apply with the Student Financial Services’ Office to
defer their bill until the end of each session. To apply for deferment, the student must complete the Bay Path
College Tuition Deferment Application in its entirety and return the form to the Student Financial Services’ Office
at least two weeks prior to the first scheduled class. The payment for the deferred portion of the bill must be
made within two weeks from the last scheduled class date of the session. Students are also required to submit
payment to the Student Financial Services Office of $500.00 two weeks prior to the start of each semester.
Payment may be made via check, cash, MasterCard, Visa or American Express. Students may request this
application from the Student Financial Services Office.
If you have any questions regarding the completion of these forms or require information regarding financial aid,
please call Stephanie King in our Student Financial Aid Services Office at either 413-565-1261, or 800-782-7284,
X1261 or email finaid@baypath.edu.
5. When I complete the program successfully, what degree would I be eligible to receive from
Bay Path College?
If you have a bachelor’s degree, you would be eligible for a Master of Science in Education degree. If you have a
master’s degree, you would have the choice of pursuing either a Master of Science in Education (M.S.Ed.) degree or
a Specialist in Education degree (Ed.S). Please make sure you determine which degree you are pursuing upon
application. It is important that you monitor your degree status on your degree audit.
6. Where will the classes be held?
All courses will be held at either the Longmeadow or Burlington campus.
7. How do I retrieve my MTEL scores from the Massachusetts Department of
Education/Department of Elementary and Secondary Education?
Apply on-line through the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Electronic Licensure
and Recruitment (known by the acronym ELAR).
Steps for Students:
1. Go to www.doe.mass.edu/educators. This brings you to Educator Services. In the upper right-hand corner,
choose ELAR – Educator Licensure and Recruitment.


At the DOE Security Portal page, click on Create ELAR Profile beneath the login box and follow the
instructions. Check for accuracy before you submit. Note: you can create an ELAR Profile at any time.
After you’ve created a username and password, choose ELAR welcome page.
Important Information:

Keep a record of your ELAR username and password. This is confidential and only you have access to it.
8. Who might I contact if I would like additional information about this program?
Dr. Liz Fleming
Bay Path College-Burlington Campus
Dean of the Burlington Campus and Director of the Graduate Program in Special
123 Cambridge Street
Burlington, MA 01803
781-272-6588
lfleming@baypath.edu
5-15-11
Education
17
Download