James C. Maraventano

My research interest is in foundational issues which potentially confound learning environments of teachers and parents who serve students and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Specifically, much work is done educating teachers and parents on best practices of implementing techniques and strategies informed by Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA).However, many times, education and training does not lead to consistent implementation of said techniques, resulting in student-related concerns (i.e. delayed or stagnant skill acquisition, challenging behavior) and staff/parental concerns (i.e. “burnout”, increased stress and anxiety). While ABA provides strategies towards improving the intellectual and behavioral development of the student, I am hoping to learn more regarding the principles and theories of learning which can inform teacher and parent training. I am hopeful that through use of perspectives which inform learning and the design of learning environments, I will be able to design a teacher training model that includes and emphasizes the importance of a collaborative approach to enhance compliance and/or success of educators and parents, leading to improved services for their students with special needs.