Zané Chase ’23 uses Behavior Analysis to assist students with autism

I enrolled in the Dual Certification Teaching in Applied Behavior Analysis Master’s degree program at Teachers College, Columbia University. The program encompassed teaching students the applicability of principles of behavior and verbal behavior development as studied by pioneers such as B. F. Skinner and Fred S. Keller. In addition to taking courses that build our expertise on the science of behavior, the program included practical experiences through internships. In my first year, I worked in a private school for students in pre-k with autism and developmental disabilities. In my second year, I worked with a similar population in a public school. Across both settings, I conducted research on the efficacy of different interventions for a variety of students and behaviors. As students in the Master’s program, we conducted and wrote 2-3 research studies each semester. The program was in partnership with the school and so a lot of our assignments were based on students’ individualized needs in our classrooms. 

Receiving my bachelor’s degree from Eastern definitely made my understanding of applied behavior analysis a lot easier. The psychology program prepared me on how to effectively and meticulously write a research paper under APA 7th edition guidelines. In addition, the behavior analysis program at Eastern prepared me to read dense articles and books by pioneers in the ABA field. Both Professor Diller and Professor Krebs played a huge role in my decision to pursue ABA as a career. Aside from their engaging and thought-provoking presentations and discussions in class, they were always willing to meet outside of class (office hours or not) to aid in my understanding of the ABA courses and my career path. In fact, my conversations with Professor Krebs are what led to my interest in ABA and Professor Diller assisted me with my graduate applications and decisions. This is especially significant for me as I am a first-generation student with no one in my family to guide me as I make these life-changing decisions.

Today, I am working as a special education classroom teacher at a private school for students with autism. I train staff on how to implement interventions rooted in behaviorism and assess and implement intervention based on students’ individual needs and IEP.