The three types of student in a 40-hour RBT course (Part 2)
Continuing our earlier discussion on the types of people who take a 40-hour RBT course, today let's consider the most obvious group: students who plan to seek certification as Registered Behavior Technicians.
Unlike the first group -- which is interested in learning about Applied Behavior Analysis but not necessarily working in the field -- these folks are on a career path.
Most of these people tend to already be employed by, or are otherwise associated with, non-profit agencies, schools or for-profit companies that offer Applied Behavior Analysis services. Many are DSPs (Direct Support Professionals) working in group homes with people with intellectual/developmental disabilities. Others are working in special education in a school system. RBT certifications can lead to pay increases and promotion opportunities for such people. Another group of these students have seen how family members have benefited from Applied Behavior Analysis and wish to make a career of helping others. Some have volunteered at the Special Olympics, or taken a course or two in psychology, or otherwise learned a bit about RBTs and decided it was the career for them.
If you're one of these people, a 40-hour online course is the fastest and most convenient way to begin the certification process.
Bear in mind, however, that the 40-hour course is the beginning, not the end, of the path to becoming a Registered Behavior Technician. Consult the RBT Handbook published by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board and then sign up for an inexpensive online course like the one from the Verbal Behavior Institute.
