Prediction and Verification of Behavior Change
Multiple baseline research is an alternative to reversal design when removal or reversal of intervention is not possible or not ethical. Multiple baseline research is focused on three elements: prediction, verification, and replication. In effect, predictions are made per a baseline and the introduction of variables help verify and replicate those predictions based on observed behaviors. Prediction, verification, and replication are critical elements to evaluating the effectiveness of experiments based on this design.
For this Discussion, you will examine how prediction and validation works and how these elements are applied. You will also consider the impact of positive reinforcement.
To Prepare
- Review the Learning Resources for this week, including the required weekly media programs, to gain an understanding of prediction and verification of behavior change. Note: It is critical for you to review all media for this week prior to completing this Discussion.
- Post an explanation of how a researcher uses prediction and verification of behavior change in a multiple baseline across individual design. Then, explain the advantages and disadvantages of multiple-baseline design.Read your colleagues’ postings.
Resources
- Cooper, J. O., Heron, T. E., & Heward, W. L. (2020). Applied behavior analysis (3rd ed.). Pearson.
- Chapter 9, “Multiple Baselines and Changing Criteria Designs” (pp. 193–215)
- Kazdin, A. E. (2021). Single-case research designs: Methods for clinical and applied settings (3rd ed.). Oxford University Press.
- Chapter 7, “Multiple-Baseline Designs” (pp. 182–208)
- Najdowski, A. C., Bergstrom, R., Tarbox, J., & St Clair, M. (2017). Teaching children with autism to respond to disguised mandsLinks to an external site.. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 50 (4), 733–743. doi: 10.1002/jaba.413
- Document: Design Critique (Word Document)