Inside Behavior Analysis
Volume 1 | 2009 | Number 1
Behavioral Technology
By Christina Whalen
The Technology SIG was created to bring together companies, researchers, service providers, and consumers who are interested in the use of technology for conducting research or providing ABA services. The primary goals of the Technology SIG are: 1) To share ideas and educate others about how technology can be used to promote ABA practices; 2) To support consumers of technology products by developing a set of best practices; 3) To set a path for research in technology for ABA; and 4) To promote ABA and exchange information through technology.
As more and more consumers look for the services of ABA providers, technology is becoming a great resource for filling in some of the gaps to reach more consumers. This rapidly growing approach to ABA is not new to the field, even B. F. Skinner utilized technology in his research, and since then, the potential for using technology has become even greater with the immense resources now available with video, computers, mobile devices, etc. This SIG aims to provide and share cutting-edge ideas to those who study, teach, use, or need ABA.
Membership is open to researchers, practitioners, technology developers, academicians, administrators, and consumers. This group welcomes anyone who has an interest in technology and how it can be used in ABA.
The Behavioral Technology SIG has a handful of members at this time and is planning for a big year of growth in the upcoming year. Members will work toward creating an interactive Web site and blog for the dissemination of technologies with a behavioral focus, and for sharing research on technology-related studies. Members will be able to share information on this site and as the membership numbers and Web site grow, members will look into creating an on-line journal. The Behavioral Technology SIG also hopes to increase dissemination to the public about ABA by utilizing technology (Web site, blog, etc.). In the future, the SIG would like to host a Technology-specific conference. In addition, plans are being made to present a Technology Panel at the 2010 ABA Conference. Those who are interested in helping to grow this important new SIG, please contact us.