Behavior

Overview of the principles of applied behavior analysis and how they are used in teaching students with Autism Spectrum Disorders.
Topics will include basic learning principles, effective use of reinforcement to increase behaviors and skills, effective teaching procedures, discrete trial instruction and strategies to increase verbal behavior
Creating data driven programs to address academic, behavioral, daily living and social goals.
Monitoring program effectiveness and troubleshooting learning difficulties.

Understanding the purpose that challenging behaviors serves for students with Autism Spectrum Disorders and how to identify the environmental variables that impact behavior
How to conduct a functional behavioral assessment (FBA) utilizing various data collection tools
Design effective behavioral support plans. An emphasis will be placed on teaching functional alternatives to problem behaviors and using differential reinforcement procedures to reduce challenging behaviors. Participants will practice applying these skills in simulated situations.
Strategies to proactively address and meet the needs of student on the autism spectrum

An overview of reinforcement as an evidence-based practice used to increase appropriate behaviors, decrease challenging behaviors and teach new skills in individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders
How to use reinforcement programs to increase motivation, reduce barriers to learning and engage learners as they acquire new skills and behaviors.
Understand the important concepts of reinforcement and how to utilize differential reinforcement procedures
Creating and implementing different types of reinforcement programs.
Topics will include: identifying target skills/behaviors, how to identify positive reinforcers, utilizing token economies, selecting reinforcement schedules, troubleshooting learning barriers and monitoring learner progress.

This workshop will address our awareness of the individual and ourselves while dealing with challenging behaviors and the cycle of aggression.
An in-depth discussion will focus on effective de-escalation techniques and when to use them, particularly as it applies to people with Autism Spectrum Disorders.