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| Contrived Automatic Consequences |
| Monday, May 30, 2016 |
| 2:00 PM–2:50 PM |
| Columbus Hall CD, Hyatt Regency, Gold East |
| Area: PRA; Domain: Applied Research |
| Chair: Nathan Blenkush (Judge Rotenberg Educational Center) |
| Discussant: Abigail B. Calkin (Calkin Consulting Center) |
| Abstract: Behavioral interventions often rely heavily on caregivers observing a response, delivering a programmed consequence, and collecting requisite data associated with the intervention. As a result, human error often interferes with the optimal implementation of behavioral interventions. In addition, aspects of some responses (e.g. intensity) are not easily captured through human observation. Here, we describe various methods that transduce operant responses into digital signals. Specifically, we review the applied use of decibel meters, micro switches, touch sensors, and inertial measurement units. Additionally, we describe the automatic delivery of reinforcers and punishers made possible through the transduction of behavior. Taken together, these technologies enhance interventions by (a) improving temporal contiguity between response and consequence; (b) allowing for precise measurement of behavior; (c) reducing the demands on the caregiver carrying out the intervention; (d) simplifying the implementation of complex schedules; and (d) improving procedural integrity. |
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| The Transduction of Behavior |
| NATHAN BLENKUSH (Judge Rotenberg Educational Center), Nick Lowther (Judge Rotenberg Educational Center) |
| Abstract: We describe the development and implementation of various behavioral transduction and consequence delivery technologies. First, we describe the use of a decibel meter paired with an automatic food dispenser capable of automatically carrying out a DRO procedure. Second, we review the development of DRI procedures based on micro switches adapted for specific cases. Third, the use of inertial measurement units (IMUs) are described and demonstrated. IMUs are capable of detecting the force, duration, frequency, interresponse time, and topography of a wide range of behaviors over long periods of time. The IMUs collect data 300 times per second on 19 different variables useful in describing behavior. Taken together, these technologies enhance interventions by a) improving temporal contiguity between response and consequence; b) allowing for precise measurement of behavior; c) reducing the demands on the caregiver carrying out the intervention; and d) improving procedural integrity. |
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| Contrived Automatic Reinforcement of Academic Behavior |
| JASON CODERRE (Judge Rotenberg Educational Center), Maryellen Newman (Judge Rotenberg Educational Center) |
| Abstract: We describe the automatic delivery of conditioned reinforcers (money) contingent upon academic responses. The system is designed so that money is delivered contingent upon achieving a predetermined rate of responding (aim) on various academic subjects. Upon meeting an academic aim, fixed or variable magnitude reinforcers can be arranged according to various schedules. An adjustable response cost can also be arranged for inappropriate behaviors. Money acquired can be added to an online account visible to the student. Generally, programs are arranged so students can earn up to $100 per week. Finally, we compare the contingencies associated with the aforementioned system and other contingency management systems described in the educational and substance abuse literature. |
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