So far in the course, you have learned about single-subject design research methodologies. You will now apply what you have learned about these different research designs by describing how you will apply single-subject methodologies to four given scenarios. Relying on research to justify your choices is essential to ensure evidence-based practice. You will then graph one of the designs to show the results of the application of the design to the given scenario.
Instructions
For this assignment:
- Read through these scenarios. Each scenario corresponds to one of the single-subject research methods commonly employed by behavior analysts.
- Scenario 1 – Multiple Baseline Design: Suppose you have two preschool students who engage in disruptive behavior in the classroom, and you want to evaluate an intervention to decrease the disruptive behavior. Describe how you would use a multiple baseline across subjects design to evaluate the intervention in this scenario.
- Scenario 2 – Withdrawal Design: Juan acts out in class and makes jokes at inappropriate times. The teacher believes that he is exhibiting this behavior to gain her attention. How would you use a withdrawal design to determine if, in fact, Juan is trying to gain the teacher’s attention?
- Scenario 3 – Alternative Treatments Design: Susan is trying to develop an exercise routine for herself. She wants to determine if she does better sticking to a routine if she participates regularly in a structured class, or if she exercises alone using equipment she has in the home, like workout videos, weight bench, bicycle, et cetera. How would you use an alternating treatment design to determine which type of exercise routine is most effective for Susan?
- Scenario 4 – Changing Criterion Design: Bob is a heavy smoker. He has chosen to try to stop smoking gradually instead of cold turkey. He has set a quit date for the end of the month. How would Bob use a changing criterion design to help track his progress as he attempts to quit smoking?
- Complete the following for each scenario:
- Describe how you would apply that design to achieve the desired results.
- Justify your proposed application process by citing a recent peer-reviewed article that effectively demonstrates a similar application of that methodology. (You cannot use the articles that you have read in previous studies.)
- Select one of the scenarios and design a graph that will depict the results of the application of the research to the identified problem.
Additional Requirements
- Written communication: Employ academic communication skills that are scholarly, professional, and respectful of the diversity, dignity, and integrity of others, in a manner consistent with members of the psychology profession.
- APA formatting: Use current APA style and formatting, paying particular attention to citations and references. Refer to Evidence and APALinks to an external site. for citing and referencing tips.
- Length: 6–8 pages, excluding the cover page and references list. Include page numbers, headings, and running heads. No abstract is required.
- References: A minimum of four scholarly or professional resources.
- Font and font size: Times New Roman, 12 point.
Competencies Measured
By successfully completing this assignment, you will demonstrate your proficiency in the following course competencies and grading criteria:
- Competency 1: Apply research methods and designs used in applied behavior analysis.
- Describe the appropriate application of research methods and designs to address specific problems.
- Competency 3: Construct displays of data collection and interpretation in behavioral measurement.
- Construct a graph that depicts the results of the application of a single-subject research design to an identified problem.
- Competency 4: Analyze the effectiveness of behavioral interventions presented in single-subject experimental research.
- Analyze the effectiveness of behavioral interventions presented in single-subject experimental research as they pertain to identified problems.
- Competency 5: Communicate in a manner that is scholarly and consistent with expectations for professionals in the field of psychology.
- Write coherently to support a central idea, with correct grammar, usage, and mechanics as expected of a psychology professional.
- Successfully implement APA style.
