Association for Behavior Analysis International

The Verbal Behavior Developmental Theory proposes a trajectory of behavioral cusps and capabilities acquired throughout an individuals development which form the foundations for learning. An emerging body of research indicates that problems in learning may indicate missing cusps and capabilities. Further, these cusps and capabilities can be induced to accelerate learning by methodologically providing empirically researched instructional histories called verbal developmental protocols. Schools in the Comprehensive Application of Behavior Analysis to Schooling model apply principles of behavior analysis and Verbal Behavior Developmental Theory to learning and teaching. Children in these schools include individuals with disabilities, children from socially and economically disadvantaged homes, as well as typically developing children. Cusps and capabilities have been identified from foundational pre-speaker and pre-listener status, through independent reader and writer status. Panelists in this Professional Development Series event will discuss their expertise teaching students with varying levels of verbal behavior, including identifying missing cusps and capabilities and procedures for inducing them.