Sample interview questions: Describe your experience with conducting functional assessments of challenging behaviors in the classroom.
Sample answer:
My experience with conducting functional assessments of challenging behaviors in the classroom has been extensive and diverse. As an Educational Psychologist, I have had the opportunity to work with a wide range of students with various behavioral challenges, including those with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and emotional and behavioral disorders (EBD).
To begin with, I always approach functional assessments with a holistic perspective, taking into account multiple factors that may contribute to the challenging behaviors. These factors typically include the student’s individual characteristics, such as their cognitive abilities, learning style, and social-emotional development. Additionally, I consider environmental factors, such as the classroom setting, teacher-student interactions, and peer relationships.
To conduct a functional assessment, I utilize a combination of methods and techniques. Firstly, I gather information through interviews with teachers, parents, and other relevant individuals who interact with the student regularly. These interviews help me gain insights into the antecedents and consequences of the challenging behaviors, as well as any patterns or triggers that may be present.
Observations play a crucial role in my assessment process. I conduct direct observations in the classroom, taking note of the specific behaviors displayed, their frequency, duration, and intensity. I also observe the student during specific activities or transitions to identify any specific triggers or challenges. I pay close attention to the student’s interactions with peers and teachers, as well as their engagement in academic tasks.
In addition to interviews and observations, I often utilize various behavioral rating scales and checklists to gather quantitative data on the frequency and severity of the challenging behaviors. These tools provide valuable information for comparison purposes and can help track progress over time.
Once I have collected and analyzed all the relevant data, I analyze the functional relationship between the behavior and its antecedents and consequences. This analysis helps me identify the purpose or… Read full answer
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