HomeBxLogDana Do'sDana Do’s: How to Discriminate Between Extraneous and Confounding Variables Dana Do’s: How to Discriminate Between Extraneous and Confounding Variables January 2, 2025 What if there is some sort of a threat to internal validity question on the Big exam, and two of the answer options are extraneous variable and confounding variable? What is the difference? Here’s what may be frustrating: Sometimes, these terms are treated as synonymous. I hear folks use the words interchangeably all the time when presenting their research at conferences. They are not wrong to do that. But, what if you have to discriminate between the two terms on the Big day? What is the difference? An extraneous variable is any part of the experimental environment, other than the treatment variable, that has to be controlled. Meaning, it must remain constant. These are the variables that experimenters can actually control because it is something the experimenter is aware of, like the lighting or the noise level, the room temperature, etc. Experimenters know how to keep these environmental variables constant. Here’s a hint: Think extraneous and environment. Both start with an “e.” Confounding variables, on the other hand, are the extraneous variables that exert an influence on the dependent variable because they were unexpected and not considered in planning. They are unable to be controlled for proactively, like unknown bootleg reinforcement or unique setting events where the participant didn’t get enough sleep, or is coming down with something. Or maybe, something stressful happened to the client prior to the experiment. Think of confounding and no control, both start with “con.” “No control,” because these are variables an experimenter cannot control. Takeaway: Extraneous and confounding variables are the same, but different. 6th Edition TCOD. Experimental Design D.3 Identify threats to internal validity (e.g., history, maturation). BEPWConfounding VariableExtraneous variable Related Content Dana Do's: The Distinction Between Analysis Types and Experimental Designs What’s the difference between parametric, component, and comparative analyses? And what do experimental designs have to do with it? PTB founder Dana Meller clears up the confusion with a deep dive into analysis variations.Warm-up effects Refers to when initial response rates in baseline are weaker due to a subject needing to get warmed up.Verification Demonstrating that the independent variable alone is responsible for the effect on the dependent variable by removing the independent variable and observing the dependent variable return to baseline levels.Type I error When research outcomes result in a false positive, meaning they are interpreted as effective when actually they were not.Type II error When research outcomes result in a false negative, meaning they are interpreted as ineffective when actually they were effective.Treatment package An intervention plan, typically for behavior reduction, with two or more independent variables interacting simultaneously.Systematic replication An experimental replication of a previous study in which the researcher intentionally changes one or more features of a prior experiment.Subject confounds Any uncontrolled participant-related variables that may interfere with the outcomes of an intervention and therefore the internal validity of an experiment.Setting confounds Any uncontrolled variables in the treatment setting that could impact the outcomes and/or the effectiveness of an intervention and therefore the internal validity of the experiment.Single-subject designs A type of experimental design in which each subject serves as their own control, and the effects of treatment are compared to the subject’s own baseline data.Steady state responding A pattern of stable target behavior responding over a period of time.Steady state strategy A deliberate process in experimentation where the dependent variable is repeatedly exposed to the independent variable, controlling for and/or eliminating any extraneous influences on the dependent variable and achieving a…Sequence effects A confounding effect on a subject’s behavior in a given condition that results from the subject’s experience with a previous condition.Reversal design Any experimental design in which responding is reversed to a level obtained in a previous condition by alternating between specific independent variables and baseline conditions.Replication (in baseline logic) Demonstrating that reintroducing the independent variable after it was withdrawn produces a return of the dependent variable to levels similar to those observed in previous independent variable Hint: This is…Repeated reversals design A variation of the reversal design that includes replication, in which responding is reversed to a level obtained in a previous condition by alternating between specific independent variables and baseline…Reactivity Refers to the changes in an individual’s behavior due to the presence of an observer.Practice effects Refers to an improvement in responding from the opportunity to practice a behavior, specifically during prolonged baseline measurement periods.Prediction (in baseline logic) The projected result of a presently unknown measurement to be determined in the future, based on the belief that if current conditions persist, so will the pattern of responding, and…Nonconcurrent multiple baseline across participants design A variation of the delayed multiple baseline design in which the baselines are so delayed that there is no overlap between them, like a series of AB designs across participants.Nonparametric analysis A type of experiment in which the effects of the independent variable are presented and withdrawn, comparing the effects of both conditions on the dependent variableParametric analysis A type of experiment in which the effects of differential amounts of the independent variable are presented and compared to the dependent variable.Multiple baseline design An experimental design in which the effect of one independent variable is measured and evaluated within and across combinations of two or more subjects, behaviors, or settings.Multiple treatment interference In an experimental design that requires the implementation of more than one independent variable to one subject, the outcome of one treatment may be influenced by the effect of another.Multiple probe design A variation of the multiple baseline design that uses intermittent measurement or probes instead of consecutive measures to evaluate the effect of one independent variable within and across combinations of…Multiple treatment (reversal) design A variation of the reversal design in which multiple treatments are alternated in different phases and compared to baseline and/or each other.NCR reversal technique A variation of the reversal design in which noncontingent reinforcement is used as the control condition and contrasted against contingent reinforcement. Responding is reversed to a level obtained in a…Multiplicative effects When the effects of one component of a treatment package may be influenced or modified by the presence or interaction of another component.Maturation Refers to the changes in a subject over the course of the study that result from natural growth and development.Measurement confounds Uncontrolled variables related to the environment, the measurement tools, or a data collector’s behavior that may interfere with the measurement of behavior and therefore impact the outcomes and/or the effectiveness…Multielement design An experimental design in which two or more independent variables are presented in rapidly alternating succession, and the differential effects of each independent variable on the target behavior are measured.Internal validity The extent to which an experiment strongly shows that changes in the dependent variable are a direct result of the independent variable and not the result of some other uncontrolled…Intrasubject direct replication An experimental replication of a previous study in which the researcher exactly duplicates a previous study using the same subjects as the original study.Intersubject direct replication An experimental replication of a previous study in which the researcher exactly duplicates a previous study but uses different subjects from the original study.Irreversibility A behavior for which the effects of treatment cannot be undone. Therefore, it cannot return to a baseline level of responding when an independent variable is removed.Independent variable (IV) confounds Uncontrolled environmental variables that may interfere with the outcomes and/or the effectiveness of an intervention and therefore the internal validity of the experiment.Independent variable In an experimental design, this is the particular aspect of the environment manipulated to assess its effects on the target behavior.Group designs An experimental design that randomly assigns subjects to experimental and control groups. They pretest, apply the independent variable to the experimental group, and posttest the results-comparing the data from both…Functional relation When changes in the dependent variable are predictably related to the independent variable, demonstrating a clear cause-and-effect relationship between the dependent and independent variable.External validity The extent to which the results of a study can be generalized to other settings, behaviors, or subjects.Extraneous variables Any aspect of the environment that must be held constant to prevent unplanned environmental variations during experimentation, usually something the experimenter is aware of and for which they do their…Experimental design The specific arrangement of conditions in a study that are created to compare the relevant relations of the effects of the independent variable’s presence, absence, or different values of the…Experimental control When an experiment can reliably demonstrate a causal relationship between an independent variable and a dependent variable by controlling for extraneous variables and ensuring that the independent variable is responsible…DRO/DRI/DRA reversal technique A variation of the reversal design in which DRO, DRA, or DRI are used as the control condition and contrasted against each other. Responding is reversed to a level obtained…Drop-out component analysis A method for conducting a component analysis that includes presenting the entire treatment package and then systematically removing individual components to identify which components are necessary for meeting treatment goals.Dependent variable In an experimental design, this is the target behavior of interest.Direct replication A researcher exactly duplicates the procedures from a previous study, using the same or different subjects with the same demographics.Delayed multiple baseline design A variation of the multiple baseline design in which all of the baselines do not begin at the same time, instead additional participant baselines are added to the study as…Confounding variables Result can elicit a reflexive behavior.Component analysis An experiment in which each component of a multi-component behavior intervention (treatment package) is examined to determine the most effective elements and combinations.Comparative analysis An applied comparison of two or more treatments to assess which treatment is most effective.Changing criterion design An experimental design in which an initial baseline phase is followed by a series of treatment phases consisting of successive, stepwise, and gradually changing criteria for which reinforcement or punishment…Code’s definition of informed consent (service/research) The permission given by an individual with the legal right to consent before participating in services or research, or allowing their information to be used or shared. Providing the opportunity…Code’s definition of research Any data-based activity, including analysis of preexisting data, designed to generate generalizable knowledge for the discipline. The use of an experimental design does not by itself constitute research.Code’s definition of research participant Any individual participating in a defined research study for whom informed consent has been obtained.Code’s definition of research review committee A group of professionals whose stated purpose is to review research proposals to ensure the ethical treatment of human research participants. This committee might be an official entity of a…Bootleg reinforcement Reinforcement that is accessed without meeting the response requirements of the contingency.Baseline logic The essential reasoning of single-subject experimental designs, which consists of prediction, verification, and replication.Baseline data The data collected prior to implementing a treatment or intervention, used as a comparison for treatment outcomes and acts as a control condition.Attrition A reduction in the number of study participants, which can impact the validity and reliability of the findings and compromise the integrity of the data.BAB reversal design A three-phase variation of the reversal design that begins with the treatment phase first, followed by the baseline phase, after which responding is reversed to a level obtained in the…Adaptation Refers to the changes in operant responding due to the repeated presentation of a particular antecedent stimulus.Affirmation of the consequent Demonstrating that the independent variable controls the dependent variable (behavior) by showing a functional relationship between the independent variable and the dependent variable, evidenced by a change in responding occurring…Add-in component analysis A method for conducting a component analysis that identifies the effective components of a treatment package by comparing each component individually or in different combinations, to the complete treatment package.Additive effects When an individual component of a treatment package acts alone to produce a desired effect and does not impact the effectiveness or lack thereof of the other components.Dana Do's: Can Changing Criterion Design be Used to Evaluate Shaping Programs? Can can a changing criterion design be used to evaluate shaping programs? Well, PTB founder Dana Meller says, it depends. Dana Do's: All the Validities in ABA, Explained PTB founder Dana Meller helps connect each of the validities to the validity of this explanation.Dana Do's: A Trick to Help Dissect BCBA® Exam Questions on Experimental Designs Experimental design tends to trip lots of people up. Here's an exam trick from Dana Meller that will help you breaking down questions on the exam.Dana Do's: How to Decipher the Many Forms of Validity It's particularly meaningful to be able to tell validity, social validity, internal and external validity apart. PTB co-founder Dana Meller has some tips to do just that.Dana Do's: How to Discriminate Dependent vs. Independent Variables If You're Not a Researcher Not a researcher? How about some help discriminating between dependent and independent variables. PTB co-founder Dana Meller offers a few tips to make that distinction on the BCBA® exam.Dana Do's: 1-Minute Experimental Design Test Hack (you still have to study it though) PTB co-founder Dana Meller shares a huge secret to help break down experimental design questions. BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Section D-3: Identify the defining features of single-subject experimental designs.Dana Do's: How to Discriminate Between Extraneous and Confounding Variables Extraneous and confounding variables are the same, but different. PTB founder Dana Meller breaks it down.Dana Do's: How to Use the Ethics Code to Help Answer Questions on the BCBA® Exam PTB founder Dana Meller illustrates how using the ethics Code can help BCBA/BCaBA exam candidates identify the correct answer on exam questions.Dana Do's: How to Determine Preference of Tested Stimuli How do you determine the relative preference of tested stimuli during trial-based preference assessments? PTB Founder Dana Meller breaks it down.Dana Do's: Clearing Up the Confusion Over Shaping and Chaining Shaping and chaining are strategies for teaching complex behaviors that are often confused. PTB founder Dana Meller makes the differences clear. Dana Do's: Fun Fact About Using DRA You know how the textbooks say that there are two parts to differential reinforcement, one being reinforcement for the desired behavior and the other extinction for the target behavior? Applying…Dana Do's: Socially Significant Information Social significance is such a buzzword ABA. PTB founder Dana Meller breaks down all the different areas in which social significance is important. Dana Do's: How to Prepare for the Transition to the BACB® 6th Edition Test Content Outline With the 6th Edition transition weeks away, many BCBA®/BCaBA® exam candidates are uncertain about how to best prepare. PTB founder Dana Meller is here with advice on how 5th Ed. students can plan to Beat the Odds and navigate the new 6th Ed. Test Content Outline (TCO).Big Exam Prep Workshop PTB’s Big Exam Prep Workshop is a live, interactive 6-week intensive (with up to 14 weeks of access to online materials, subject to registration). Integrating behavior analytic strategies, this hands-on masterclass breaks down the BACB® 6th Edition Test Content Outline, harnessing PTB’s signature formula for organizing and structuring BCBA® exam prep. Dana Do's: What's the Difference Between Continuous and Discontinuous Measurement? It’s all too easy to mix up continuous and discontinuous measurement procedures. Need some help discriminating between the two? Get clarity with help from PTB founder Dana Meller.You Got This: 5 Tips to Build Up Your Test-Taking Confidence Exam day can shake even the most self-assured candidate but it’s important to feel secure in yourself and your skills. Looking to up your confidence before sitting for the Big…Dana Do's: Considerations for Exam Questions Related to the Use of Punishment Punishment is known to have a quick impact on behavior, but there are ethical implications which makes it very controversial. PTB founder Dana Meller offers some considerations when encountering exam questions related to punishment.Dana Do's: Tips for Test Questions About Functional Analysis Tripped up trying to make correct discriminations when it comes to functional analysis? PTB founder Dana Meller has some tips to help you answer those tricky exam questions. Dana Do's: Six Direct Assessment Methods Looking to review direct assessment methods? PTB founder Dana Meller gets right to it with this quick explainer.Dana Do's: Exploring the Forms and Functions of Noncontingent Reinforcements (NCR) Let’s talk contingency independent antecedent intervention… Or, in simpler terms, NCR. Get the scoop on this non-invasive procedure with a quick explainer from PTB founder Dana Meller.Dana Do's: What to Do the Night Before the Big Exam It’s the night before your exam. What should you be doing? Well, first off, nobody knows you better than you know yourself. But since you asked, because someone did ask,…Dana Do's: Exploring the Four Types of Reinforcer Assessments PTB founder Dana Meller discusses reinforcer assessments, which should not be confused with stimulus preference assessments.Five Ways to Help Offset the Cost of Certification There’s no way around it, becoming a certified BCBA® is an investment. Not only is the exam itself costly but expenses on the path to certification can quickly add up,…The 5 Elements of an Effective Study Plan If you’re on the path to the BCBA®/BCaBA® exam and looking to get a plan in place, look no further. PTB has five tips to help you devise an effective…7 Tips for Maximizing Test Prep #1: Focus on Form Be sure to get the right resources and materials. Having up-to-date books and academic literature will ensure you’re studying the right stuff. Ready for mock exams…Dana Do's: Nine Considerations for Prioritizing Target Behaviors PTB founder breaks down each of the nine considerations for prioritizing target behaviors.Dana Do's: Extinguished Behaviors Resurge When reinforcement for the alternative replacement behavior is discontinued, extinction for the alternative behavior can resurge. The BACB® 6th Edition: Assessing All the Upcoming Changes It’s been more than two years since the Behavior Analyst Certification Board, BACB®, announced their 6th Edition updates. Now, as January 2025 inches closer, students, universities, and Applied Behavior Analysis…Rest Assured: Four Tips for Better Sleep Before the Big Exam Sleep… You need it. You love it. If you’re studying for the BCBA® exam, you probably feel like you need more of it. Staying well-rested on your journey is essential,…Dana Do's: 7 Steps of Evidence-Based Supervision PTB founder Dana Meller clarifies the specific steps for evidence-based supervision, not to be confused with behavior skills training. Dana Do's: What is the Difference Between Trial-Based and Free-Operant Teaching Arrangements? Not too sure about discriminating between the different teaching arrangements? Not to worry. PTB founder Dana Meller is here to explain trial-based vs free operant procedures.6 Science-Backed Tips for Improving Your Memory The first part of those all-important MAC skills: memorization. Being able to recall information, facts, concepts, and terms is essential (that probably goes without saying). If you find your memory…Dana Do's: Will Reinforcer Assessments be on the BCBA® Exam? The Task List and the TCO (Test Content Outline) both include preference assessments. But, they don't mention reinforcer assessments. Does that mean that reinforcer assessments will not be on the exam? ABA in Your Day-to-Day: Products That Use the Power of Behavior Principles The principles behind Behavior Analysis (ABA) are everywhere– if you know what to look for. It probably wouldn’t surprise a BCBA (or future BCBA) to know that ABA inspires everyday…Dana Do's: The ABCs of Breaking Down BCBA® Exam Test Questions If you need help breaking down test questions, there's a simple tool you can use to eliminate the risk of making assumptions on the BCBA® exam. Dana Do's: Has Your Coursework Left You Unprepared for the BCBA® Exam? If your coursework left you unprepared for the BCBA exam, PTB co-founder Dana Meller offers some ideas of how to avoid the hamster wheel of multiple exam retakes.Dana Do's: What's the Difference Between Response vs. Stimulus Prompts? If a response prompt and a stimulus prompt both prompt correct responses, what is the difference?Beat the Odds: 5 Tips You Need If You’re Retaking the Exam Retaking the exam? You’re in good company. In fact, PTB conducted a study of BCBA® exam candidates in 2023 that showed more than ⅓ of test-takers are in fact retakers.…Dana Do's: What Should I Do If I Don't Pass the BCBA® Exam? If you're retaking the exam and you don't know how to proceed with studying again, PTB co-founder Dana Meller has some suggestions that you might want to consider. Dana Do's: Why BCBA® Exam Retakers Should Ignore the Score Report PTB's retaker philosophy has not changed since we first began BCBA® test prep, 12 years ago. In fact, the philosophy has only been reinforced over the years as retaker pass rates continue to drop. If you're retaking the exam, you need to hear this advise from PTB co-founder Dana Meller.3.14 Tips to Make Exam Prep as Easy as Pi #1: Set Specific (And Smaller) Goals Setting goals when developing a study strategy is important, but even more important is setting goals that are rational, realistic, and manageable. Setting too…Dana Do's: How to Discriminate What 'Is' or 'Is Not' Behavior in BCBA® Exam Questions There is a struggle with identifying what is or is not a behavior when it comes to BCBA® exam questions. PTB co-founder Dana Meller offers some simple yet critical ways to make those discriminations.Dana Do's: Do Alternative Behaviors Need to be Functionally Equivalent? Do alternative behaviors always have to be functionally equivalent to the target behavior that we're trying to reduce or eliminate? PTB co-founder Dana Meller breaks in down.Dana Do's: And Just Like That, Context and Application for Task List Items How does going to ABA conferences help you pass the BCBA® exam? PTB co-founder Dana Meller recalls her student journey and the "a-ha moment" when she realized, attending forced her to generalize what she was studying, in context. Suddenly, ABA terminology was no longer a foreign language she was trying to master.Dana Do's: How to Determine Value vs. Behavior Altering Effect A motivating operation is not a thing that you hold in your hand. It is the state or condition of being deprived of something or satiated with something. PTB co-founder Dana Meller dives into the in-the-moment effects to help explain the difference.PTB Partner Spotlight: In Conversation with APBA’s CEO, Dr. Tyra Sellers An industry veteran who watched the field of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) grow into what it is today, Tyra Sellers, J.D., Ph.D., BCBA-D joined the Association of Professional Behavior Analysts (APBA) in January 2023 as CEO. Her first ABA certification came before the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) even existed. Some years later, as fate would have it, Sellers found herself at the BACB, serving as the director of the ethics department. Now, she is bringing her knowledge and experience to the distinguished organization with a strategy that is focused on access, education and community.Dana Do's: Cracking the Ethics Code on Consent vs. Assent The ethics code asks behavior analysts to obtain informed consent before starting a treatment plan. But…what does that entail? PTB co-founder Dana Meller breaks down informed consent, assent, and the ethics elements you need to know. Refer to BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Code Section E- 2.11 Obtaining Informed ConsentDana Do's: Discriminating Between Masking and Overshadowing PTB co-founder Dana Meller offers detailed examples to help students better discriminate between two often confusing concepts: masking vs. overshadowing.Dana Do's: Chain Chain Chain, Chain, Chain... Which chaining method goes with which behavior? Dana Meller offers some considerations that may help you answer that question on the exam. Refer to BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Section Section G-8: Use chaining. Dana Do's: Confused About Automatic and Socially Mediated Reinforcement? It’s not wrong to associate sterotypic behaviors with automatic reinforcement— but there are other factors to consider. PTB co-founder Dana Meller offers a quick explainer to clear up the confusion. Refer to BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Section B-7: Define and provide examples of automatic and socially mediated contingencies.Dana Do's: If All Prompts Prompt Behavior, What's the Difference? If all prompts prompt behavior, how can you tell the different between stimulus and response prompts? PTB co-founder Dana Meller simplifies it with one word. Refer to BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Section G-4: Use stimulus and response prompts and fading (e.g., errorless, most-to-least, least-to-most, prompt delay, stimulus fading).Dana Do's: Fun Fact. The Process of Self-Management Requires Two Behaviors Self-management: one process, two behaviors. PTB co-founder Dana Meller explains controlled vs controlling response, and shares real-life examples of how they are used together in self-management strategies. The Path(s) to Becoming a BCBA® Currently, there are four paths to meet the eligibility requirements, though it’s important to note that the BACB® will be revising the pathways in 2027.What Is a BCBA® Certification and Why Get One? The Board Certified Behavior Analyst® exam (or, BCBA® exam) is a graduate-level certification in behavior analysis administered by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board® (BACB).Beat the Odds: Factors that Impact Performance on the BCBA® Exam Though the exam may be difficult, it’s not impossible to achieve a passing score. There are several ways students can improve their chances and beat the odds. The right preparation is essential.How Hard is it to Pass the BCBA® Exam? The question every future BCBA® inevitably asks: how hard is it to pass the BCBA® exam? If you’ve heard the stories or seen the data, then you know the exam has a reputation for being difficult. Ask around and you’ll likely hear that it’s sort of like running a marathon. But barefoot, on broken glass, in a giant corn maze, guarded by storm troopers and you can’t remember where you left your lightsaber…oh, and your headphones just died. Dana Do's: What Do Philosophical Assumptions Got To Do With It? It often feels like the board is asking candidates to study concepts you may never use in practice. PTB co-founder Dana Meller explains why that's actually inaccurate. The philosophical assumptions underlying the science of behavior analysis is so much more integral than just passing the big exam.10 Positive Effects From Prioritizing Self-Care Self-care. It’s a bit of a broad term, and a total buzzword these days. It’s often used in the context of bubble baths and “unplugging.” But, at its core, self-care is about more than just “me-time.” It’s about taking care of yourself in a way that works best for you and your lifestyle. 5 Ways to Make the Big Exam Feel Less Scary #1: Arm Yourself (With Knowledge) As they say, knowledge is power, and the best defense on exam day is knowing your stuff. It’s ok to reschedule if you’re not ready.…Dana Do's: Feeling Isolated on ABA Island The life of a behavior professional can be rewarding, but it can also be a little lonely. PTB co-founder Dana Meller shares her experience with overcoming isolation with some recommendations for students and current BCBAs.Desk Yoga: 7 Stretches for Your Next Study Session Long days and even longer study sessions, can leave your back and neck feeling stiff. Luckily, PTB has just the thing: 7 desk-friendly, do-anywhere yoga moves. While it can’t replace your regular yoga routine, these stretches can help you reset your mind and body when you’re glued to your desk (or couch, or kitchen chair). 5 Science-Backed Tips to Make Your Study Space More Soothing #1 – Declutter to De-stress Fortunately, this first tip costs nothing. Unfortunately, it may require a bit of elbow grease. Organizing your study or work station can help you better…Keep Calm and Study On: 6 Strategies for Managing Test Prep Stress It goes without saying that studying for the BCBA® exam is stressful. The experience can fray the nerves of even the most level-headed student. If you’re feeling the test prep…From PTB’s Test (Prep) Kitchens: A Brain-Boosting Berry Smoothie It’s important to fuel your brain and body with nutritious food that will give you the energy to power through long days and even longer study sessions. But, between school,…Dana Do's: What Chaining Method to Use When? The books don't really say much about what chaining methods BCBA's should apply to what behaviors. PTB co-founder Dana Meller breaks it down. Refer to BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Section G-8: Use chaining.Behind the Scenes of the Big Exam Prep Workshop Known for her trademark humor and clinical knowledge, PTB co-founder Dana Meller takes students behind the scenes of creating the PTB Streaming Lecture Series, a collection of 9 pre-recorded lectures covering each of the BCBA® 5th edition task list sections.Dana Do's: What are the Markers of a Good Supervisor? PTB co-founder Dana Meller identifies the markers of being a good supervisor. BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Section I-8: Evaluate the effects of supervision (e.g., on client outcomes, on supervisee repertoires). Dana Do's: Yes, verbs are clues that can help you prep for the BCBA exam PTB co-founder Dana Meller shares how the verbs used in the Task List can provide you with significant clues for effective studying. By examining task list verbs, you can actually determine the specific type of discrimination required in your studies. Learn how understanding these verbs can guide your preparation and better equip you for success on the big exam.5 Test-Taking Tips to Help You Pass the BCBA® Exam Prep the Night Before Pack up everything you’ll need for exam day the night before so you won’t need to worry about it the day of. Are you wearing comfortable…6 Science-Backed Study Tips for Your Next Study Session Switch Up Your Environment Studying in a new environment has been shown to help improve memory and concentration levels. Try studying at a coffee shop, library, or a new spot…Add to Cart: PTB’s Study Essentials When it comes to test-prep, you need the right tools for the job. PTB has compiled a must-have list of study supplies so you can stock up on your next…Dana Do's: How to Decode the Code PTB co-founder Dana Meller suggests that memorizing the sections of the BACB® Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts will in fact help you make correct discriminations when prepping for the BCBA® exam. Dana Do's: Why BCBA® Retaker Odds are Lower There's a danger of studying only the score report. PTB co-founder Dana Meller offers insight on why it's important to study like a test virgin.Dana Do's: That Feeling of Freaking Out Over the BCBA® Exam Everyone feels like they won't pass the BCBA® exam, not just you. PTB co-founder Dana Meller talks about the experiences her students share as they prep for the exam. And surprise surprise, you are not alone in feeling scared, dealing with the pressures of everyday life, and trying to negotiate so many variables. If that's you and you're struggling, the good news is that it's temporary. And the payoff, that is fantastic.Dana Do's: Imagine the Task List is a Jigsaw Puzzle PTB cofounder, Dana Meller treats the task list like a puzzle, and so should you. Like a puzzle, all the task list items are interconnected. To be exam ready, you need all the pieces, and every piece needs to be in place. Dana Do's: Looking at the World Behavior Analytically Why should you look at the world behavior analytically? Because it will help you build ABA fluency.Dana Do's: How to Optimize Memorization PTB Co-founder Dana Meller reinforces the importance of memorization and offers some practical, empirically validated tips for memorizing the task list.Dana Do's: Get Your M.A.C. Skills Together PTB co-founder Dana Meller offers a key to building fluency and BCBA® exam readiness. Memorization. Application. Comprehension. Dana Do's: Dealing with the Frustration of Failing the BCBA® Exam PTB cofounder Dana Meller offers some unsolicited advice for candidates who have experienced the frustration of failing the BCBA® exam by only a few points. Dana Do's: Why You're Not Passing the BCBA® Exam PTB cofounder Dana Meller helps candidates retaking the exam consider a functional approach to defining the obstacles holding them back. Dana Do's: Short Cuts Don't Work PTB co-founder Dana Meller talks about avoiding shortcuts in your exam prep. Becoming a BCBA® is not just about passing the Big Exam, it is about taking on a professional identity. Dana Do's: The Importance of Speaking ABA PTB co-founder Dana Meller shares the importance of speaking ABA and being able to fluently read and understand the Cooper text in order to pass the big exam.Dana Do's: Understanding the ABC's of Behavior Used to Break Down Test Questions PTB co-founder Dana Meller shares how our ABA superpowers can be used to break down exam questions to organize BCBA® exam prep.Dana Do's: Put On Your BACB® Board Hat Want to know what to study for the BCBA® exam? PTB co-founder Dana Meller reminds candidates that the exam is a knowledge assessment, not a skill assessment.Dana Do's: BCBA® Exam Prep Studying Tips PTB co-founder Dana Meller shares helpful tips about incorporating studying into your already busy lives. Dana Do's: Use Mistakes to Assess How You Test PTB co-founder Dana Meller shares insights on how to use your mock BCBA® exam mistakes to assess and improve your test-taking behavior. CON Artist Captured! Unmasking the CONfounding Variable of the Alternating Treatments Design PTB co-founder Dana Meller hones your experimental design skills with a focus on the alternating treatments design's confounding variable. Refer to BCBA® Task List (5th ed.) Section D-5: Use single-subject experimental designs (e.g., reversal, multiple baseline, multielement, changing criterion).
