Training Behavior Analysts as Strategic Scientists

Abstract

Training competent behavior analysts is fundamentally crucial for the survival and prosperity of behavior analysis. The current article introduced the Comprehensive Application of Behavior Analysis to Schooling (CABAS) as a training model to train behavior analysts as strategic scientists. The CABAS training model is based on the philosophy of behavior selection and features a personalized system of instruction-based rank system. Each rank includes three areas of expertise: verbal behavior about science, contingency-shaped repertoire, and verbally mediated repertoire. The trainees work on these components with small-unit modules that shape and maintain their effective criterion-based performance. Advancement through these ranks demonstrates the trainees' increased proficiency and advanced expertise. We also discussed future research direction and the implications to graduate training programs in behavior analysis in general.