Application of Behavior Analysis in Animal Training

Students are provided with a working knowledge of principles of operant and Pavlovian conditioning and their application in effecting behavior change. This course provides students with a unique opportunity to bridge the gap between behavioral theory and application by combining basic principles and hands-on implementation of teaching procedures. Using systematic observation, data collection and behavior analysis, students learn to use the behavioral data provided by their rat to direct when and how they alter their teaching strategies. Although students will be training behavior with rats, and direct contact with the rat is required, the goal of the course is to teach students skills necessary to become effective and efficient teacher: careful observation, quick analysis of changing behavior, and the flexibility to alter teaching procedures.