Using Behavior Skills Training in Schools
Do you struggle with training staff? …Can’t be in a million places at once? …Feel like your constantly explaining the same thing over and over?
if you answered yes to any of those questions above, then this post might be what you are missing! Schools and districts are starting to recognize they need behavior analyst but don’t often know how to use us. One way I have been able to effectively use my skills to train others is using the Behavior Skills Training (BST) model. Keep reading to learn more about how to utilize it in schools.
BST: What is it?
Behavior Skills Training is an evidence based strategy to teach others new skills or behaviors. BST is often used in various settings, including education, healthcare, and workplace training, to teach a wide range of behaviors and skills. It has been demonstrated to be effective for teaching both simple and complex behaviors, such as social skills, communication skills, academic tasks, and safety procedures.
BST is particularly valuable in applied behavior analysis (ABA) interventions for individuals with developmental disabilities, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and other behavior challenges. It provides a structured framework for teaching new behaviors and promoting skill acquisition in a systematic and efficient manner.
The Four Components
Instruction: Providing clear and detailed instructions on the behavior strategies you are going to implement. This is your behavior plan!
Modeling: Demonstrating and showing examples on how you want the plan or parts of the plan to be implemented. Again, being specific and detailed.
Rehearsal: Now it’s their turn. They demonstrate what you modeled and will act as though they are implementing the strategy or plan with the student.
Feedback: This step is so important! Giving them specific feedback on what they did well, and ways to improve.
Real Life Implementation
I know it always sounds easier said than done, but here is a real example of how I implement this often in my practice.
Instruction: I began by setting up a time to meet with the staff involved that worked with their schedule. This meant their prep time. I outlined the importance of positive reinforcement and proactive strategies and the importance of that in increasing positive behaviors. I gave clear instructions on techniques such as using praise, implementing visual schedules, and setting clear expectations for behavior. I print it all out and provide it to the teachers present.
Modeling: Next, I demonstrated each technique in action. I made sure to include how to deliver praise effectively, model the use of visual schedules, and provide examples of setting clear expectations for behavior in the classroom.
Rehearsal: Then it was time for the staff to get some hands-on practice. I was in a small group just the para and teacher so they took turns practicing the techniques they just learned.
Feedback: When they were done I provided specific, constructive feedback on each staff member's performance, highlighting areas of success and offering suggestions for ways to be even better at implementation.
I love using BST to train teachers because as a school behavior analyst I canNOT be in all places at once. Teachers and school staff can’t rely on my being the one to change the behavior itself, they must learn the skills necessary to do it! Using this model I have a better understanding of the staffs level of comprehension of the skill and can assess whether reteaching or more supports need to be put in place.
Basically, Behavior Skills Training is a versatile and evidence-based approach to teaching and promoting behavior change, that allows us BCBA’s to be effective in school settings by training others.
Until next time, keep calm and behavior on!
