In applied behavior analysis, the ultimate goal is effecting positive change in socially significant behavior. Examples run the gamut of human experiences and interactions, from increasing reading time for a student at home to reducing disruptive behavior in the classroom. Achieving this goal is directly dependent on the systematic application of each step of the research process. A crucial initial step is operationally defining behavior.
The accurate and detailed description of both the target and replacement behaviors provides the framework for well-designed single-case research. These descriptions need to be observable, measurable, and repeatable. Making sure that the target behavior is measurable sets the stage for conducting observations of the behavior and determining potential interventions.
For this Assignment, you will examine a video of a particular behavior, define the behavior, and develop a strategy to measure that particular behavior.
To Prepare
- View the Case Study: Observing and Measuring Behavior video in this week’s Learning Resources regarding behavior. It is suggested you watch the video multiple times before completing this assignment.
- In the video, the boy wearing an orange shirt is the target child for this Assignment.
- Select a behavior in which the target child engages that could be the focus of an intervention.
Assignment (1 page):
- Operationally define the behavior you observed in the target child in the Case Study: Observing and Measuring Behavior video.
- Suggest a measurement strategy.
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.
Resources
- Cooper, J. O., Heron, T. E., & Heward, W. L. (2007). Applied behavior analysis ( 3rd ed.). Pearson.
- Chapter 7, “Analyzing Behavior Change: Basic Assumptions and Strategies” (pp. 155–170)
- Kazdin, A. E. (2021). Single-case research designs: Methods for clinical and applied settings (3rd ed.). Oxford University Press.
- Chapter 1, “Introduction” (pp. 1–30)
- Alnahdi, G. H. (2015). Single-subject designs in special education: Advantages and limitationsLinks to an external site.. Journal of Research in Special Educational Needs, 15 , 257-265. doi: 10.1111/1471-3802.12039