What I Wish I Knew Before Taking Introduction to Applied Behavior Analysis in Grad School
As I look back on my grad school journey, one of the first classes that stands out is Introduction to Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). It was a required 3-credit course that laid the foundation for everything I would go on to learn about ABA. But, like many things in grad school, it wasn’t exactly what I expected. If you're about to take this course or are in the process of considering it, here are a few things I wish I had known beforehand.
1. It’s More Than Just Behaviorism
When I first signed up for the course, I assumed it would be all about behavior modification techniques and classical conditioning—basically, a crash course in how to change behaviors. While that’s certainly part of it, what I didn’t realize is how much theoretical groundwork the class would cover. You’ll dive deep into the underlying principles that drive behavior, like reinforcement, punishment, and the science of learning. It’s crucial to build this foundation, but it’s also a lot more theory-heavy than I anticipated.
2. You Will Need to Learn a New Language
One thing no one told me was how ABA has its own language. Terms like reinforcer, discriminative stimulus, and antecedent-behavior-consequence (ABC) are just the tip of the iceberg. In my first few weeks, I found myself completely lost in the jargon. To be honest, it felt overwhelming at first because these terms weren’t just words; they were essential for understanding the concepts. It’s important to study the terminology early on so that when you move into more complex topics, you can focus on applying what you’ve learned rather than constantly translating the language in your head.
3. You’ll Need to Apply What You Learn, and That Can Be Tough
While the course focuses on foundational knowledge, there’s also an applied component where you’ll have to start thinking critically about how ABA can be used in real-world settings. This part was a bit tricky for me because applying abstract concepts to real situations isn’t always straightforward. It requires practice, and sometimes it takes a while before it clicks. The case studies and role-playing exercises are helpful, but don’t be discouraged if you don’t immediately understand how to translate theory into practice. It takes time to get the hang of it.
4. The Workload Can Be Intense
Like most grad school courses, Introduction to ABA comes with its fair share of readings, assignments, and quizzes. The workload is manageable, but it’s a lot more than you might expect for a “foundational” course. If you're juggling other classes or work commitments, you’ll need to plan accordingly. I found that staying ahead on readings and practicing concepts outside of class was key to staying on top of things. Time management became my best friend in this class.
5. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help
ABA can be a challenging subject, especially when you’re just starting out. I wish I had reached out for help sooner. Whether it was asking the professor for clarification on concepts or leaning on my classmates for discussion, I found that I wasn’t alone in my confusion. Your peers and professors are there to help, so don’t hesitate to seek guidance. The concepts will start to make sense eventually, and sometimes a fresh perspective is all you need.
6. The Class Will Be Just the Beginning
As much as “Introduction to ABA” provides a solid foundation, I quickly learned that this class was just the beginning. It’s like the first chapter in a much bigger book. The more advanced courses will dive deeper into topics like assessment methods, behavior interventions, and ethical considerations, so while it can feel overwhelming at times, keep in mind that you’re building a long-term understanding of the field. Stay patient with yourself as you work through this foundational course.
Final Thoughts
Looking back, Introduction to Applied Behavior Analysis was one of the most rewarding courses I took in grad school, but it wasn’t always easy. If I could go back and tell myself a few things before starting, I’d emphasize the importance of understanding the theory behind the practice, the need to get comfortable with the language, and the value of persistence.
If you’re about to take this course, brace yourself for the challenge but know that you’re laying the groundwork for an exciting and impactful career in ABA. And remember: it’s okay to feel a little lost at first. With time, practice, and a willingness to ask questions, you’ll soon start seeing how everything fits together. Stay focused, stay curious, and trust that it will all come together in the end.
