Current status of behavior analysis-related courses in domestic special education teachers training colleges: basic discussion to prepare criteria for qualification for a bachelor's degree program in behavior analysis experts

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to obtain implications for preparing Korean Behavior Analyst Certification by analyzing the subjects related to behavior analysis at special education teacher training that reflects the qualification standards of bachelor's degree program, which has recently been increasing interest in Korea. We analyzed the curriculum posted on the department's website for 46 departments of 31 universities with special education departments among universities that are special education teacher training institution of nationwide. The results of the study are as follows. First, 23 out of 31 colleges (74.2%) have both behavioral analysis principles and clinical practice courses in the department (major) for training teachers in special schools nationwide. Second, 49 subjects related to behavioral analysis principles were opened in the National Special School Teacher Training Department (major), and mainly consisted of 3 credits for elective major, with subject names such as ‘Behavioral modification’, ‘Positive Behavior Support’, and ‘Special child behavior modification’. Third, 123 subjects related to clinical practice were opened in the department (major) for training teachers in special schools nationwide, and mainly consisted of 3 or 2 or less credits for elective major and teaching profession, with subject names such as ‘Educational volunteer activities’, ‘School field practice’, ‘Educational volunteer activities’, and ‘Special education field practice’. According to the results of this study, in order to prepare a bachelor's degree course for behavioral analysis specialists, the necessity of opening additional courses related to behavioral interventions to strengthen the professional competence of preliminary special education teachers was discussed.