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Some of our autistic support classrooms are receiving in-classroom support from consultants at PaTTAN to implement a supplemental curriculum called Verbal Behavior (VB). The implementation of this program is a part of PaTTAN's autism initiative. If you would like more information regarding resources and training, please visit PaTTAN's website.What is Verbal Behavior?Verbal Behavior is based on the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis and B.F. Skinner's analysis of verbal behavior."Skinner (1957)proposed that language is learned behavior, and that the same basic principles of behavior that constitute the foundation of applied behavior analysis apply to verbal behavior. According to Skinner (1957), humans acquire their ability to talk and understand language much in the same way that they learn other behaviors such as reaching, grasping, crawling, and walking. The motor behavior involved in vocal cord movement gets shaped by the effects those movements produce on others..." -Sundberg, M., 2008Each student is assessed using the VB-MAPP protocol. This assessment helps determine where each particular student's needs are. The VB program addresses those skills that children typically develop between ages 0-48 months. Many students on the autism spectrum may have acquired skills at a much higher level, but still have skills deficits in these basic categories. Verbal Behavior contains 6 operants, which are each addressed through the assessment and instruction.TactTact means labeling or naming. This should include objects, actions, events, relations, properties, etc. i.e. A tendency to say "car" when you see a car.MandMand means to request. i.e. When thirsty and wanting water, a child asks (or signs) and receives the specific reinforcer of water.EchoicEchoic means imitating someone else' vocal verbal behavior. i.e. Child says "water" after you have said "water".Motor ImitationMotor imitation means imitating someone else's motor movements. This is a very important foundational skill, as this is the basis of how all children begin to learn.Listener RespondingListener responding includes receptive skills and following instructions. i.e. "Sit down," "Give me the ball," "Find the shoe," "Put your plate in the sink."After being assessed, individualized programming is written to target specific skills for each student.
Last Modified on July 19, 2018