EDF5680 Behaviour analysis: Concepts and foundations

This unit consists of four modules; Philosophy of Learning (Module 1), Principles of Learning (Module 2), Behaviour Consultation and Assessment (Module 3), and Professional Ethics for Behaviour Analysts (Module 4). In Module 1, you will be introduced to philosophical foundations of behaviour analysis. You will explore the history of radical behaviourism, compare and contrast radical behaviourism with other theories of learning and behaviour, and discuss the basic assumptions and core characteristics of the science of behaviour analysis. In Module 2, you will be introduced to basic concepts and principles in behaviour analysis, including reinforcement, motivation, and stimulus control. You will explore two functionally distinct types of behaviour, respondent and operant, and discuss how the environment influences each type of behaviour. In Module 3, you will learn to conduct basic behaviour assessments to inform the selection of treatment goals and objectives. You will learn about (a) important considerations for selecting and defining target behaviours, (b) various strategies for measuring behaviour, (c) methods for assessing and improving the quality of measurement, and (d) tactics for constructing graphic displays of data. In Module 4, you will be introduced to the Behaviour Analyst Certification Board's Professional and Ethical Code of Conduct. You will explore professional and ethical issues in behaviour analysis, including your ethical responsibilities to clients, colleagues, supervisees, other professionals, the BACB, and society as a whole. You will analyse common ethical challenges in applied behaviour analysis, and discuss potential solutions.

This unit aligns with BACB 4th Edition Task List requirements.