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Sex and sexuality has always been a sensitive topic for people and especially so for those who work with individuals on the spectrum. The uncomfortable nature of the matter is what makes behavior analysts both inexperienced as well as in a crucial role to teach sexuality. Influenced by culture that made it a topic that shouldn’t be discussed in polite company, sexuality is far more than just sex but also focuses on the social and relationship aspect and must be taught as such.

“I think having 50 million students as a target for impact is by definition a socially important setting.” Ronnie Detrich, PhD

This course introduces how the Pyramid Approach in education can be beneficial for learners with autism or related developmental disabilities. The Pyramid Approach describes how to create an effective learning environment through the applications of data collection and data analysis. It systematically implements key elements from applied behavior analysis emphasizing functional communication.

When practiced most effectively and ethically, special education is also characterized by the use of research-based teaching methods, the application of which is guided by direct and frequent measures of student performance. William Heward, EdD, BCBA-D

 “More than 50% of students with Autism Spectrum Disorder spend at least 2 days per week in regular classrooms. Today, 1 in 3 students with Autism Spectrum Disorder are included in the regular classroom for the entire day.” William L. Heward, EdD, BCBA-D

As we end 2020, we want to make sure that we are going into 2021 with intention. Make sure that we are setting ourselves up for success.

 … but to have serious, open, honest discussion about human sexuality, it’s something most of us would rather not do. Peter F. Gerhardt, EdD

Interdisciplinary teams devise and implement educational plans for children with special learning challenges. Sometimes, these involve a behavior analyst. Whether you are a behavior analyst thinking about working in schools, currently working in schools, or working alongside a school’s behavior analyst, you know schools have teams of several people who contribute to each child’s education plan.

OBM seems to be such a mystery to many of us. In this Continuing Education course, Kelly Therrien demystifies OBM and recounts her experiences in the field. You’ll learn what OBM is, how it fits into behavior analysis, and you’ll even get practice using a couple of helpful tools within the field.

The field of Applied Behavior Analysis is growing and, as it continues to grow, we have a responsibility to the next generation of behavior analysts. In this continuing education course, Dr. Schlinger will challenge you to consider how we can do a better job of educating future behavior analysts. He uses literature to make the case for an increased focus on experimental and conceptual analysis. With an understanding that behavior is multiply controlled, it seems obvious that no single form of treatment will work.

We’re all on a journey. We may be at different points in that journey, but we’re constantly learning from the people around us. In this Continuing Education offering, Corey Robertson gives personal examples of what supervision, mentorship, and leadership mean.

Collaborating with school personnel is not easy. There are many other parameters, schedules, and opinions to consider. Creating and implementing an effective Individualized Education Plan (IEP) can be confusing for parents, behavior analysts, and teachers alike. Nicole Postma will review the Positive Behavior Interventions and Support (PBIS) tier model that many local school districts use.

Join Operant Innovations as we talk with Dr. Laura Hanratty about the unique program and practical opportunities at Elms College.

“Historically, when they cut Medicaid services, they don’t put them back.” Peter F. Gerhardt, EdD

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