Planning to take the BACB certification exam? Know that you can’t appear in the exam until you get the mandatory 40 hours of Applied Behavior Analysis instruction training.
This training includes a range of interactive assignments, video modules, and other curriculum activities to help you learn the ins and outs of behavioral challenges. Most people take this course online as it provides them much-needed flexibility to learn at their own pace.
But what’s actually included in the course material? In today’s article, we’ll share the important elements so you know what to expect when you start the course.
Core Content Modules
The RBT online training course is built on six core modules. These are measurements, assessment, skill acquisition, behavior reduction, documentation, and ethics.
In behavior assessment, human behavior and its various dimensions are studied. Similarly, skill acquisition is done using different techniques like task chaining, prompt fading, and prompting.
Behavior reduction addresses how to control behavior during crisis/emergency protocols. We then have a documentation and reporting module that covers various variables affecting the client and ensures compliance with data storage requirements.
In the ethics stage, the BACB’s codes of conduct are taught. Students also learn how to maintain professional boundaries and preserve client integrity in every situation.
Video Tutorials and Interactive Learning
Self-paced videos and quizzes are also part of the course, as they demonstrate how to properly record data and follow behavioral intervention plans.
For example, video modeling is a stage that showcases correct and incorrect therapeutic techniques. Behavioral Skills Training (BST) is the backbone of interactive modules. It combines instructions with role-play activities and immediate feedback so learner can instantly rectify their mistakes.
At the end of each bite-sized lesson, short tests are conducted to ensure the information is retained. Exam prep modules are also offered as flashcards. The goal is to build students’ vocabulary as efficiently as possible.
Interaction with the Instructor
In certain cases, you also get the opportunity to talk one-to-one with an experienced instructor who will answer all your questions. Based on your questions, they evaluate your knowledge and give you actionable insights on what you can do to improve your chances of passing the exam.
This interaction is immensely valuable for two primary reasons. It is fully personalized to your unique circumstances, and it reveals hidden flaws you may not know about from the course material alone.
Course Completion Certificate
Once you complete all 40 hours, a certificate is issued. This certificate is required to apply for your initial Competency Assessment and official RBT Exam.
Here, it’s important to keep in mind that the 40-hour training is just the first step. You also need to pass a range of other things, including the Competency Assessment and final BACB exam. You also need to pass a background check to become an official RBT.
Final Thoughts
It’s important to get training from a reputable, reliable source. This will ensure you gain the knowledge you need to grow in your career.