A two-week course for Applied Behavior Analysis Technicians (ABATs) has been introduced by the National Autism Center of the Ministry of Social Development.
Muscat – This program is intended to provide special education specialists from the Ministry of Education and families of individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) who are enrolled at the center with the necessary skills and knowledge in applied behavior analysis, with an emphasis on supporting the rehabilitation of individuals with autism. The program will last two weeks.
The program’s primary objective is to provide participants with the ability to apply the principles of learning and behavioural analysis to enhance their work with individuals on the autism spectrum. It emphasizes strategies for modifying and analysing behaviours effectively, optimizing rehabilitation sessions, and ensuring that goals outlined in individualized education plans are achieved in a timely manner. This approach aims to reduce learning obstacles and equip individuals with the necessary skills to progress faster in their educational journey.
Arwa Al-Talaba, an expert from the National Autism Centre, is leading the training sessions. The program covers a broad spectrum of topics related to ABAT, starting with an introduction to the field and its relevance to autism. Participants will learn key concepts such as the fundamental behavioural systems in ABA, including the identification and procedural definition of behaviour, behaviour assessment and measurement, and the role of the environment in influencing behaviour.
Other important aspects of the program include understanding reinforcement schedules, differential reinforcement, and training methods for discrimination, generalization, and maintaining sustainable behaviour. The program also addresses the evaluation and analysis of behavioural functions, teaching strategies for increasing desired behaviours, and exploring legal, ethical, and professional considerations in working with individuals with autism.
This initiative is part of the Ministry’s ongoing efforts to empower specialists, families, and educators with the tools they need to better support individuals with autism, ensuring a more effective and inclusive approach to development and rehabilitation.
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