Training Providers to Conduct Trial-Based Functional Analysis

Description

Behavioral interventions developed from a functional behavior assessment (FBA) are more likely to be effective than interventions that are not function-related (Carr, 1994). Further, the quality and fidelity of FBAs are positively correlated with student educational outcomes including reduction in challenging behavior, increases in appropriate behavior, and improved academic performance (Cook et al., 2012). Trial-based functional analysis (TBFA) can be used as an effective and efficient approach to confirm FBA results, thereby increasing the likelihood for effective function-based intervention. Preparing school personnel and ABA providers to conduct systematic TBFAs with fidelity is one means of increasing school capacity to assess student challenging behaviors. This session will illustrate a model to prepare service providers to conduct TBFA. Data from single case design studies evaluating this model will be presented.

About the Speaker

Dr. Mandy Rispoli is a Professor of Special Education at Purdue University and a Board Certified Behavior Analyst-Doctoral level. She is the Co-Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Positive Behavior Interventions. Operating from a behavior analytic framework, Dr. Rispoli’s scholarship is built upon sustained university-community partnerships to improve teachers’ meaningful involvement in functional behavior assessment and intervention and to promote positive outcomes for young children with autism and developmental disabilities.