Dr . Allan Allday founded the Applied Behavior Analysis program at the UK College of Education .
Crawford , originally from Flemingsburg , has worked in the field for six years since graduating with a psychology degree from UK in 2010 . She is pursuing the applied behavior analysis master ’ s degree to further her career . Following completion of the program , graduates of the master ’ s program sit for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst ( BCBA ) examination .
“ Our field is science-based , but when you put it into practice , it doesn ’ t look like what we traditionally think of as science . We work in the real world and not a controlled laboratory setting . We learn how to apply the science in an ever-changing environment , and that ’ s how we affect change ,” Crawford said .
“ On top of behavior management , our field has provided years of research on effective strategies for teaching academic , social and self-help skills . But first we have to manage problem behavior , especially in schools , because that hinders the learning .”
Crawford has a soft spot for the underdog . “ It took a village to raise me , so I know what it means to have someone be there for you ,” she said . “ There are many kids who have a ton of potential , but there ’ s something holding them back . Sometimes it takes a fresh set of eyes , an outside perspective , to help eliminate the barriers so they can grow .” skills in the field but also to be research practitioners .
Each student is engaged in research activity with faculty members and completes an individual thesis . This helps instill in students the importance of staying up to date on research throughout their careers .
An applied behavior analyst ’ s job satisfaction often comes from the success stories . One faculty member recalled a student who had been hospitalized several times because of his behavior disorder . After working with the student , he is now able to function in a general education classroom . The ultimate goal is to help children and youth learn academic and social skills that allow them to be as independent as possible throughout life .
Faculty leaders hope to continue to expand the reach of the program . Donations to help further the initial investment made by Women and Philanthropy will allow more graduate students to complete their studies and the intensive practicum experience in high-need schools .
To donate , contact Jeff Francisco at ( 859 ) 257-2479 .
The program not only trains students to apply
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