Course Overview

These training materials were created for the Autism Center of Excellence at Western Michigan University.  In order to address new accessibility standards, content and format of courses will be updated in the near future.

Behavioral Technician Training on Applied Behavioral Analysis Part 4: Teaching Skills by Krista Kennedy, MS, LLP, BCBA is the fourth of a planned seven-part series providing Behavior Technician Training on Applied Behavioral Analysis to direct care workers. Part 4 defines "reinforcement." Additionally, in this part there is a discussion regarding the effects reinforcement has on behavior and the effects of motivation on reinforcement. It will take approximately one hour to complete this course.

  • Credit Hours: MCBAP-R (1.0), MCBAP-S (0.0), Mi-CEC (0.0), Nursing (0.0)

Topics Covered

What is Reinforcement in Applied Behavioral Analysis?

Participants of this course will develop a working understanding of reinforcement as it pertains to ABA and working with clients at attribute symptoms of the Autism Spectrum Disorder.

The Effect of Reinforcement on Behavior.

This course will also cover the effect that reinforcement has on the behavioral learning process. 

Reinforcer Effectiveness.

How effective is a reinforcer and reinforcement efforts? This course will provide examples and evidence-based best practices on working to provide reinforcement for your clients. 

Motivation and Reinforcement.

This course provides the participants with a working understanding of the role of motivation within Applied Behavioral Analysis. Once completed, participants should be able to make a clear correlation between motivation and reinforcement. 

Additional Considerations

Routine can be powerful in reinforcing a feeling of well-being and stability for autistic individuals.

Course Objectives

  • Define reinforcement
  • Discuss the effects reinforcement has on behavior
  • Discuss reinforcer effectiveness
  • Discuss immediacy of reinforcement
  • Understand the effects motivation has on reinforcement

What People Are Saying

My experience with this module was enlightening. I received clarification on some issues I assumed that I knew. I now have a better understanding due to my participation in this course.

- Vincent B.