The Role of Behavior Analysis in Education

Behavior analysis is an increasingly valuable tool within education to address the diverse needs of students. Applied behavior analysis (ABA) is defined as “the science in which tactics derived from the principles of behavior are applied systematically to improve socially significant behavior and experimentation is used to identify the variables responsible for behavior change.”

To explore the role of Board-Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) in education, we spoke with Ron DeMuesy, a BCBA with over 22 years of experience, mainly in school settings. Ron currently works at the Educational Service Center of Central Ohio and is President Elect for the Ohio Association for Behavior Analysis (OHABA). He gave us insights into the benefits of behavior analysis in school settings and why more schools are hiring BCBAs.

Schools and Board-Certified Behavior Analysts

In recent years, many school districts have begun hiring BCBAs directly instead of relying on their contracted services. According to Ron, this change has been notable in Ohio over the last five years. That shift, Ron said, is due to schools recognizing the benefits of using ABA not only to address behavioral challenges but to also enhance teaching strategies. “It’s not just about behavior problems. It’s about the science of good teaching,” said Ron. “And there’s a lot in ABA about good teaching/scientific methods that have shown to work.”

Behavior analysis principles can enhance teaching methods, from classroom-wide behavior management to more individualized instructional strategies.

He emphasized that having BCBAs as part of the staff helps build capacity within the school. “It’s a way to provide teachers with extra tools and improve their ability to address behavioral and academic challenges,” he said.

Schools can foster more independent and capable teaching environments by equipping educators with behavior analysis strategies.

Differences Between Clinical and School Settings and the Challenges in Implementing ABA in Schools

For those considering a career as a BCBA, understanding the distinction between clinical and school-based work is crucial. BCBAs have more control over the environment in a clinical setting, often working one-on-one with clients. However, BCBAs must navigate a more dynamic and less predictable setting within a school classroom. ” As a BCBA in a school, I can’t control who is in the classroom or the noise level, and I often encounter staff who may have little to no familiarity with ABA,” Ron said. These factors often require school-based BCBAs to be more adaptable and creative in their approach.

The Role of the BCBA: Clinic vs. School

A key difference between BCBAs working in schools and those in clinical settings is their roles regarding supervision. In a clinic, a BCBA may directly supervise staff, while in schools, they typically serve as mentors rather than formal evaluators. As Ron explained, “I might oversee a plan and provide feedback, but I don’t have the authority to enforce changes. This makes collaboration and communication with educators even more critical.”

Despite these challenges, Ron believes these dynamics can make the work more rewarding. “It’s about working together with the staff, helping them understand ABA, and seeing that change come to life.”

Challenges in Implementing ABA in Schools

Implementing ABA strategies in educational settings presents its own set of hurdles. One common issue is the complexity of behavior plans, which can overwhelm educators. “Sometimes, BCBAs make the mistake of designing strategies that are too difficult to implement in a classroom,” said Ron. He emphasized the importance of simplifying strategies and offering teachers options that integrate naturally into their daily routines.

Another significant challenge is overcoming misconceptions about behavior analysis. Many educators may associate ABA strictly with working with children with autism, but Ron emphasized that behavior analysis is a versatile field that can be applied to various settings, including general education. “It’s not just about discrete trials; it’s about effective teaching methods that apply to all learners.”

Practical Examples of ABA in Education

Ron provided insight into how ABA principles are applied across different levels of intervention, often visualized as a tiered model.

• Tier 3: Individualized plans for students with significant needs, including functional behavior assessments and behavior intervention plans.
• Tier 2: More focused strategies for groups of students who need additional support, including data collection to tailor interventions.
• Tier 1: School-wide programs, such as Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS), where ABA principles help establish consistent routines and transitions.

Through these tiers, BCBAs can help identify and address behavioral challenges while building skills that students can generalize across different settings. Ron emphasized that successful behavior analysis interventions aren’t just about reducing problematic behaviors but also about teaching replacement skills that promote independence.

Opportunities for Future BCBAs

Ron encourages those considering a career in behavior analysis to do their research and understand the growing demand for BCBAs in schools. “I don’t think the trend of schools hiring BCBAs is going to slow down. It’s only going to get bigger,” he said.

Ron spoke highly of the University of Cincinnati’s (UC) behavior analysis program, where he has supervised many students. “UC’s program is fantastic. It equips future BCBAs with the practical skills they need to excel in diverse settings, including schools.” He encouraged prospective students to research programs and trends, especially as the demand for BCBAs in schools continues to grow. “We’re seeing more complex learners, and schools will need professionals who can address these challenges.”

As a member of the Ohio Association for Behavior Analysis, Ron highlighted the organization’s efforts to support BCBAs, particularly those in educational settings. OHABA hosts conferences and provides networking opportunities, including a mentorship program aimed at connecting school-based BCBAs with experienced professionals. This network helps new BCBAs navigate the unique challenges of working in schools and ensures they have the support needed to succeed.

Supporting Diverse Learning Needs

Ron also spoke about the significance of behavior analysis in supporting diverse learning needs. From working with students with autism to those with social-emotional challenges, ABA techniques are adaptable to different educational contexts. Schools are increasingly facing complex learners who require more than just academic support. “It’s not just a student with a academic challenges, it’s often a student with multiple layers of needs,” he shared. The ability to apply ABA techniques, such as task analysis, reinforcement, and skill-building, helps address these needs effectively, making BCBAs a valuable asset to educational teams.

The Future of Behavior Analysis

The field of behavior analysis within education is expanding, offering numerous opportunities for BCBAs to make a meaningful impact. As Ron DeMuesy’s experience shows, BCBAs play a critical role in not only supporting individual students but also in empowering teachers with the skills and strategies necessary for effective classroom management.

For those considering a career in this field, understanding the dynamic and collaborative nature of school-based behavior analysis can help set expectations and prepare for a fulfilling career dedicated to improving student outcomes.

By embracing the challenges and opportunities in school settings, BCBAs are helping to shape more supportive, effective, and inclusive educational environments across Ohio and beyond.

UC’s Master of Education in Foundations in Behavior Analysis

The University of Cincinnati’s 100% online Master of Education in Foundations in Behavior Analysis and Master of Science in Behavior Analysis from the University of Cincinnati is designed for those passionate about understanding and applying behavioral science principles. This fully online program allows you to deepen your knowledge in behavior analysis without the need for campus visits, making it ideal for busy professionals.

Ready to take the next step? Reach out to a UC Enrollment Services Advisor for more information.