Learn how applied behaviour analysis helps people with autism improve their social skills in this free online course.

The widespread recognition of applied behaviour analysis (ABA) within the scientific community makes it an important tool for supporting individuals on the autism spectrum. This psychology course offers ABA strategies to help you understand and assess behavioural patterns associated with autism, with the goal of promoting positive development. We begin by discussing common characteristics and behaviours of autism and explain how to apply standard ABA techniques to support these individuals. You will learn how to create an ABA-informed support plan, focusing on fostering positive behaviours, and how to track and evaluate progress.

This autism awareness course also introduces the basic principles of applied verbal behaviour, detailing techniques to enhance verbal communication. We guide you through the ‘functional assessment’ process, showing how to identify and analyse behaviours, and then discuss the creation of intervention strategies, the implementation of evidence-based approaches, and the evaluation of outcomes. We also cover the application of behavioural skills training and the development of strategies for behavioural change.

The course teaches you how to recognise and use effective naturalistic teaching tactics, emphasising the benefits of collaboration. We offer techniques to encourage cooperation between parents, professional therapists, and educators. Additionally, we explore the ethics of ABA, reviewing the professional and ethical guidelines for ABA practitioners. Research suggests that ABA can be an effective way to support the development of social and communication skills in children on the autism spectrum. Enrol to gain a deeper understanding of ABA therapy and learn how to use it to support individuals with autism in developing their social skills.