Functional behavior assessment and behavior support plans for work-based learning

This article examined the use of functional behavioral assessments and behavior support plans for students in a work place setting. It explains how a “functional behavior assessment, along with ecological assessments, can be used to develop behavior support plans for students engaging in problem behaviors in employment settings” (Kittelman, Wagner & Mazzotti, 2016).

In 2014 congress passed the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act. WIOA is intended to “emphasize competitive integrated employment as the desired employment outcome for individuals with disabilities” (Kittelman, Wagner & Mazzotti, 2016). This act ensures that individuals with disabilities have equal access to competitive employment. Students with disabilities have an opportunity to complete work-based learning experiences (WBLE). These experiences help students learn “skills they need to use academic knowledge and skills effectively in the workplace and include both non-academic skills and social behavior skills” (Kittelman, Wagner & Mazzotti, 2016). If students are not taught proper skills for the workplace they may exhibit inappropriate social behavior which can lead to problems finding and maintaining stable employment. It is important that the transition personnel review the students FBA to provide them tools to support them in their workplace setting.

The transition personnel should also administer an ecological assessment to assess student performance. An ecological assessment “provides information to assist students in developing appropriate work-based behavior plans that may decrease problem behavior and increase positive workplace interactions” (Kittelman, Wagner & Mazzotti, 2016).  The assessment examines most aspects of the job such as performance, co-worker perceptions and student interactions on the job. After gathering this information, the transition personnel will work with the child to develop effective workplace skills and interactions.

Using an FBA in the workplace can be extremely effective in the student’s development of skills. “One of the most effective strategies for reducing inappropriate behaviors in specific settings is implementing interventions aimed at targeting the function of a student’s problem behaviors, or why the student engages in a desired behavior” (Kittelman, Wagner & Mazzotti, 2016). After the FBA, a BSP will be created. The BSP will help the child become more appropriate in the workplace setting and develop a positive connection between the employer and co-workers.

Kittelman, A., Wagner Bromley, K., & Mazzotti, V. L. (2016). Functional behavioral assessments and behavior support plans for work-based learning. Career development and transition for exceptional individuals, 39(2), 121-127.