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Applied Behavior Analysis Education Resources

Introduction

Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) is a one-on-one behavioral modification teaching method which incorporates teaching the child how to imitate in order to learn language and behave appropriately by using a reward system.  Hopefully, the child will generalize their language skills and what they have been taught into their daily living.  This methodology was first introduced to children with autism in the 1960s and 1970s by Ivar Lovaas, PhD.  Although it was an innovative method of teaching compared to the earlier treatments for autism, it still carried over many negative overtones.  By the early 1990s, Catherine Maurice wrote the book “Let me Hear Your Voice”.  In her book, she described the amazing recovery of her daughter and progress of her son, both with autism, by using a new version of ABA that was having more positive outcomes.  Brigitte Taylor, PhD, the therapist for these two children, subsequently started the Alpine School in New Jersey in the mid-1990s.  Since then, there have been many versions of ABA such as Discrete Trial Training (DTT), Errorless Learning (EL), and the Direct Teaching Method (DTM).  Many schools incorporate ABA into their classroom teaching.  Many private schools are strictly ABA focused and many parents hire a trained ABA specialist to oversee their home programs.

Related Sites

The Center for Autism and Related Disorders (CARD)
Description:  The Center for Autism and Related Disorders (CARD) is one of the world's largest organizations using Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) in the treatment of autism spectrum disorder.

Applied Behavioral Strategies
Description:  This website will provide you with what ABA is and the basics of the ABA method.

Books

Behavioral Intervention for Young Children with Autism: A Manual for Parents and Professionals by Catherine Maurice
Description:  This manual provides practical information for parents and professionals looking to evaluate treatment options and interventions based on Applied Behavior Analysis principles.

Understanding Applied Behavior Analysis by Albert J. Kearney
Description:  This book explains the principles and the science behind Applied Behavior Analysis and how behavior can be affected by changes in the environment.

The ABA Program Companion: Organizing Quality Programs for Children With Autism and PDD
Description:  Loaded with several Applied Behavior Analysis teaching strategies and techniques, this combo book/CD was created as a valuable source of information for teachers and parents as well. Both book and CD are helpful tools for the enhancement of classroom or home teaching structure and performance.

Behaviorspeak: A Glossary of Terms in Applied Behavior Analysis (Volume 1)
Description:  This book serves as a supplementary aid to both teachers and parents. Behaviorspeak defines the most popular vocabulary used in Applied Behavior Analysis, eliminating the chance of errors caused by misunderstanding.

Activity Schedules for Children with Autism: Teaching Independent Behavior (Topics in Autism) 2nd (second) Revised Edition
Description:  The main focus of this book is teaching a child with autism how to follow a schedule. Additionally, parents as well as teachers can teach a child when an activity is finished, how to choose a reward, and how to increase socialization.

Tools

Errorless Teaching
Description:  This brief two minute video provides definitions and examples of errorless learning.

All About Autism and Applied Behavioral Analysis: Ask the experts!
Description:  A Family Center "Ask the Experts" presentation with applied behavior analysis professionals from Training and Treatment Innovations, Inc.

ABA Consultants and Service Providers
Description:  Lists individuals and organizations that provide individualized behavioral intervention program design, service provider and parent training, and general behavioral consulting services. Also lists providers of related services such as playgroups and social skills training.

HelpingToGrow.com
Description:  Many different teaching and educational materials for ABA are provided at this web site.

Discrete Trial Teaching - Autism Therapy Video
Description:  This short video describes and shows what a Discrete Trail Training (DTT) session looks like.

Educate Autism – Tools to Help You Teach
Description:  Free downloadable materials for autism education programs.

Parent Forums/Blogs

Some forums require you to sign in to Yahoo or Facebook to locate forum names.

Forum/Blog Name:  ABA Therapy Ideas and Online Resources for Autism
Description:  This group shares ideas, activities, ABA methods, fun printable materials and support each other on this journey!

Forum/Blog Name:  The Cutest Blog on the Block
Description:  A thorough representation of Applied Behavior Analysis written by a provider. ABA terminology, videos, as well as products are offered.

Forum/Blog Name:  ABA4Autism
Description:  This forum helps parents acquire the skills necessary to experience meaningful social connections, thrive in the community, and enjoy the world around them.

Forum/Blog Name:  Verbal Behavior Facebook Group
Description:  This site is where parents and professionals can discuss concerns and information of effective Applied Behavior Analysis on children with autism.