Batch 5: Free Write ABA instructional Method

The Bay School's education and treatment approach is based on the principles of applied behavior analysis (ABA), an intervention program that applies principles of behavior to learning.  ABA is monitored by objective data measures to assess desired outcomes.  Skills are systematically taught through highly structured individualized and and small group teaching sessions.  The defining characteristic of  the instructional program is the use of explicit and systematic instruction.  These instructional strategies are used both in highly structured settings and in more natural setting, as means of facilitating generality and increasing motivation of children with Autism and other developmental disabilities.  Teaching procedures such as direct instruction, discrete trial teaching, precision teaching, observational learning, and incidental teaching are used to teach each student meaningful skills to maximize participation at school, at home, and in the community.  In my weeks at The Bay School I have seen first hand the significant changes made to students behavior and learning with the ABA approach.  I had the misconception that a behavioral approach might be cold and rigid.  But even through ABA is a science, the creative teachers make it into an art as well!