University of Galway

Course Module Information

Course Modules

Semester 1 | Credits: 10

This module will explore the philosophical underpinnings and applications of applied behaviour analysis. This module will also examine in detail the basic principles and applications of the discipline such as reinforcement, punishment, extinction, motivating operations, verbal behaviour, rule-governed behaviour, contingency shaped behaviour, generalisation, operant & respondent conditioning
(Language of instruction: English)

Learning Outcomes
  1. • Outline the historical development of behaviour analysis
  2. • Use the dimensions of applied behaviour analysis (Baer, Wolfe & Risley, 1968) in evaluating interventions to determine if they are behaviour analytic
  3. • Distinguish between experimental behaviour analysis, applied behaviour analysis and behavioural technologies
  4. • Read, critically evaluate and summarize empirical literature in behaviour analysis
  5. • Describe and define principles, processes and concepts in applied behaviour analysis: Basic concepts, stimulus & response classes, reinforcement, punishment, extinction, motivating operations, verbal behaviour, rule-governed behaviour, generalisation, contingency shaped behaviour, operant & respondent conditioning
  6. • Demonstrate an understanding of the theoretical basis and application of the principles of applied behaviour analysis through providing empirical and everyday examples
  7. • Demonstrate an understanding of the application of the principles of applied behaviour analysis through providing empirical and everyday examples
  8. • Compare, critically evaluate and contrast the principles of learning
  9. • Distinguish between mentalistic and environmental explanations of behaviour
Assessments
  • Department-based Assessment (100%)
Teachers
Reading List
  1. "Applied Behavior Analysis." by Cooper, J. O., Heron, T. & Heward, W.
    Publisher: Merrill.
  2. "Radical Behaviorism for ABA Practitioners." by Johnston, J.
    Publisher: Sloan Publishing
  3. "Principles of Behavior." by Malott, R.W., & Trojan, E.A.
    Publisher: Pearson Prentice-Hall
  4. "Behaviour Analysis for Lasting Change." by Sulzer-Azaroff, B. & Mayer, R. G.
    Publisher: Wadsworth
  5. "Decreasing Behaviors of Persons with Severe Retardation and Autism." by Foxx, R. M.
  6. "Increasing Behaviors of Persons with Severe Retardation and Autism." by Foxx, R. M.
The above information outlines module PS512: "Principles of Applied Behaviour Analysis" and is valid from 2020 onwards.
Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.