Behavior Interventions for Students with Special Needs

(Grades 3-6) / Flex Course

PDI Course Number: 156T02 / UCSD Course Number: EDUC42544

Course Description

Do you find yourself at a loss when it comes to managing the challenging behaviors of students with special needs? Does the idea of balancing appropriate discipline with school safety, classroom effectiveness, and positive outcomes for students sound like a daunting task? Many teachers across the country have noticed an increase in challenging behaviors in recent years and are searching for alternative strategies to school discipline. This online course is specifically designed for teachers in grades 3-6 who want to learn how to incorporate a variety of behavior interventions for students with special needs. Teachers begin with an introduction to positive behavior interventions and supports and learn how this three-tiered model can be used to prevent challenging behaviors. From there, teachers are provided with thorough background information on the principles of applied behavior analysis. Specific strategies are shared for recording students’ behavior, conducting a functional behavior assessment to understand the function of the behavior, and changing behavior using positive reinforcement. Information is shared on designing effective behavior goals and numerous evidence-based intervention strategies are presented. Teachers will learn how to develop an effective behavior intervention plan with a focus on self-management strategies to sustain positive behaviors even after the intervention has ended. Finally, teachers will learn about bullying and exclusionary discipline — two common issues that disproportionately impact students with disabilities — and will learn how to incorporate formal and informal restorative practices to prevent these issues. By the end of this course, teachers will be well prepared to change even the most challenging behaviors seen in the classroom. This course is worth 3 ⅓ semester units/5 quarter units (50 hours of training) from University of California San Diego (UCSD) Division of Extended Studies. For detailed information on receiving university credit for your PDI professional development course, visit our credit page.

Need help? Kimya Nabavi, PDI Program Coordinator, is ready to assist.