Reinforcement: Utilizing CAPTAIN's Evidence-Based Practices
Class Length: 3 hours
Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often exhibit deficits in communication, social interaction, and behavior regulation, which can hinder their ability to learn and thrive in various settings. Evidence-based practices (EBPs) play a crucial role in providing effective interventions to address these challenges. CAPTAIN (California Autism Professional Training, and Information Network) is a comprehensive program that aims to enhance the skills and knowledge of educators, therapists, and caregivers working with individuals with ASD.
This training focuses on the application of CAPTAIN's EBPs specifically for reinforcement in working with individuals with autism. Reinforcement is a fundamental concept in behavior analysis and is particularly relevant in working with individuals with autism. Positive reinforcement involves providing rewards or incentives to increase the likelihood of desired behaviors. Negative reinforcement involves the removal of aversive stimuli to achieve the same effect. The application of these principles requires careful consideration of individual preferences, motivations, and the context in which behaviors occur.
By focusing on assessment, personalization, data collection, collaboration, and generalization, practitioners can effectively implement reinforcement strategies that enhance communication, social interaction, and behavior regulation among individuals with autism spectrum disorder.
Presenters
Mark Pfaff is an accomplished education specialist with a strong focus on evidence-based practices in the field of special education. With over 17 years of experience, Mark has dedicated his career to enhancing the learning experiences of students with diverse needs. Mark's expertise lies in the implementation of evidence-based practices through the CAPTAIN (California Autism Professional Training and Information Network) framework. CAPTAIN is a statewide initiative aimed at providing educators with the knowledge and tools to effectively support individuals with autism spectrum disorder and related disabilities. As a certified CAPTAIN trainer, Mark has conducted numerous workshops and presentations for educators, administrators, and paraeducators. His dynamic presentation style, combined with his in-depth understanding of evidence-based practices, makes him a sought-after speaker in the field. Mark's ability to break down complex concepts into practical, actionable strategies has empowered countless educators to create inclusive and supportive learning environments. Mark's passion for evidence-based practices, his engaging presentation skills, and his genuine dedication to making a positive impact in the lives of students and educators alike make him an ideal resource for enhancing the skills and knowledge of paraeducators.
Monika Gylys, M.Ed, is a Program Specialist with the Antelope Valley SELPA. She attained her Bachelor's degree in Speech Pathology and Master’s in Special Education from the University of Illinois at Chicago. She started her career in Chicago working for school districts and various community agencies. Monika has worked with individuals of all ages with various disabilities. She was also an adjunct professor for Western Colorado University in Gunnison, CO within the Teacher Education program for five years before moving to California.
Her favorite part of her current job is to develop, plan, coordinate and provide engaging and fun professional learning workshops for SELPA’s 10 member districts for staff in early childhood through high school settings. She trains educators on a variety of subjects including the Facilitated IEP Process, Evidence Based Practices in Autism, IEP Basics, Non-Violent Crisis Intervention, Suicide Prevention, Paraprofessional CO-TOP Curriculum, among many more.
Although she has worked with students from many diverse backgrounds, her passion has been working with students with Autism Spectrum Disorders while supporting and coaching staff. She has been a member of the CAPTAIN network since 2012.