The aim of this article is to provide a concise overview of the theoretical assumptions of behaviorism, which generally informs "traditional" approaches to sport coaching. B.F. Skinner's (1904--1990) theory of operant conditioning is discussed, alongside considerations for sport coaching practice. For coaches who draw upon the principles…

Observational learning is an important area in the field of psychology and behavior science more generally. Given this, it is essential that behavior analysts articulate a sound theory of how behavior change occurs through observation. This paper begins with an overview of seminal research in the area of observational learning, followed by a…

Recent mandates related to the implementation of evidence-based practices for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) require that autism professionals both understand and are able to implement practices based on the science of applied behavior analysis (ABA). The use of the term "applied behavior analysis" and its related concepts…

In this article, the author shares an anecdote demonstrating one-trial learning which is commonplace in human behavior. The demonstration suggests that under some conditions, when people hear someone speak, their behavior changes, even in the absence of an apparent contingency of reinforcement, but only if they have in their repertoire verbal…

Three papers discuss aspects of The Ima Hogg Therapeutic School for emotionally disturbed children. The first paper addresses the school's behavior development and management system, which rewards self management with freedom in physical activity and uses individualized target behaviors designed to increase the child's acceptable social…

Eight institutionalized male juvenile delinquents participated in a 13 session course on principles and techniques of self-management. The course was conducted in the Visual Response System, a specially designed classroom in which each student responds on an overhead projector built into his desk. (Author)

The major objectives of the 3-year Claymont Behavior Modification Project, which involved 11 teachers and 270 students, were to: a) train teachers in operant procedures for use in an uncontrived natural setting; b) accelerate student academic performances, with a special view to achieving one year's academic growth in one chronological year for…

The background, organization, and operation of the Alaska Psychiatric Institute (API), a residential program for behavior disordered and emotionally disturbed children and adolescents, are described. Components of the educational program at API, including academic and social assessment, individual education plans, and elementary and secondary…

The paper describes the referral, diagnostic, interventive, and evaluative procedures used in a self-contained behaviorally oriented noncategorical program for preschool children with speech and language impairments and other developmental delays. (CL)

This paper suggests ways in which educators can help students develop responsibility, as well as academic skills and intellectual growth. The four steps in decision-making are outlined to show that decision and action should follow logically once the behavior and its consequences have been identified. A technique referred to as contracting is…