EDSPX505.BEACON - BEACON Basics

Course Description

Number of Credits: 1

Enrollment note - This course is made for individuals who have applied to and been accepted to BEACON. Participation in the course also requires attendance at the assigned two-day kickoff training.   

The Behavior Education Application Cohort Network (BEACON) Basics is an introductory professional development course designed to increase the capacity of local education agencies (LEAs) in supporting students with challenging behaviors. This course provides foundational training in evidence-based behavioral practices through structured Behavior Skills Training, including instruction, modeling, rehearsal, and feedback. Participants will develop essential skills for conducting Functional Behavior Assessments (FBA) and designing effective Behavior Intervention Plans (BIP) to promote meaningful and function-based behavior change.

As a sub-project of Idaho SESTA, funded by the Idaho Department of Education, Special Education Department, BEACON Basics is a cohort system where educators refine their behavioral expertise and collaborate to improve student support across Idaho schools.

Instructor Information

Jenny Vickhammer - jennyvickhammer@boisestate.edu

Rachel Grenzebach - rachelgrenzebach@boisestate.edu

Kylie Atkinson - kylieatkinson@boisestate.edu

Charlotte Tomevi - charlottetomevi@boisestate.edu

Stacee Dineen - sdineen@uidaho.edu

Course Objectives:

By the end of this course, participants will gain knowledge and skills in:

FBA & Data Collection

• Identifying and utilizing indirect and direct data collection methods.
• Analyzing behavioral data to determine patterns and inform intervention planning.
• Identifying patterns and determining the function of behavior
• Data collection as part of progress monitoring

Preventing Challenging Behavior

• Recognizing and addressing setting events that impact student behavior.
• Identifying antecedent events and selecting proactive strategies to reduce behavior escalation.

Teaching Replacement Behaviors

• Selecting appropriate, function-based replacement behaviors that meet student needs.
• Implementing evidence-based instructional practices to teach new skills effectively.

Responding to Behavior

• Understanding the principles of reinforcement, punishment, and extinction in behavior change.
• Implementing response strategies that align with individualized behavior intervention plans.
• Developing and applying crisis planning procedures to support student and staff safety.

Creating a Behavior Intervention Plan

• Writing measurable and meaningful behavioral IEP goals that align with student needs.
• Designing an implementation checklist to ensure fidelity in executing behavior plans.

Required Materials

There are no outside readings or materials required for this course. Resources and materials will be linked in each module that is located within the course site.

Course Requirements

1. Participation: Participants must attend their assigned two-day kickoff training and complete all components of the eight course modules, including assignments and activities.
2. Assignments and Quizzes: Students must earn an 80% score on each monthly assignment to pass the course. Assignments and quizzes can be resubmitted until passed.
3. Survey: Participants are required to complete a course satisfaction survey.
4. Final assignment: - Compile and submit a Comprehensive Behavior Support Plan that integrates all components developed throughout the course. This assignment serves as a culmination of your work and demonstrates your ability to apply the principles of Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) and Behavior Intervention Planning (BIP) in a school setting. Your final assignment will be submitted through your institution’s online canvas course available through the keeplearning student portal.

Grading

This is a pass/fail course. No incompletes will be given. Late work will not be accepted. To earn a passing grade students must:

1. Earn an 80% or better on each assignment and quiz to pass the course. Assignments and quizzes can be retaken until passed.
2. Earn an 80% (80/100) or better on the final assignment to pass the course.
3. Complete the online course satisfaction survey.