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Lloyd Lab

Instruction-Based Concurrent Operant Assessment

Training Overview

This training focuses on the instruction-based concurrent operant assessment (COA), a behavior analytic assessment that can be used in schools to develop an intervention to support student engagement and work completion. The training materials are divided into the following nine modules:

  • Module 1: Overview of COA
  • Module 2: When to Conduct a COA
  • Module 3: Overview of Instruction-Based COAs
  • Module 4: Planning an Instruction-Based COA
  • Module 5: Implementing an Instruction-Based COA
  • Module 6: Troubleshooting Tips
  • Module 7: Data Collection
  • Module 8: Data Display and Interpretation
  • Module 9: Using Results to Inform Intervention

Suggested Citation: Pollack, M. S., Lloyd, B. P., & Copeland, C. (2020). Instruction-based concurrent operant assessment (Video training modules 1–9). Nashville, TN: Vanderbilt University. Available at https://lab.vanderbilt.edu/lloyd-lab/ibcoa/

Module 1: Overview of Concurrent Operant Assessment

Module 1 introduces the concurrent operant assessment (COA). You will learn how the COA is different from other preference assessments and how results can be used to help develop interventions.


Module 2: When to Conduct a Concurrent Operant Assessment

Module 2 describes three situations in which COAs are helpful: (1) as an alternative to more traditional functional assessment strategies, (2) when the primary concern is a behavioral deficit, and (3) when students have limited opportunities to make choices in their learning environments.


Module 3: Overview of Instruction-Based Concurrent Operant Assessments

Module 3 introduces a specific type of COA: the instruction-based COA. You will learn about the basics of the instruction-based COA, including setting up work stations, assigning work conditions to each station, and one potential structure for designing an instruction-based COA.


Module 4: Planning an Instruction-Based COA

Module 4 outlines the steps to plan an instruction-based COA: (1) identify the adults who will implement the assessment, (2) set up the work stations, (3) identify high- and low-preferred tasks, and (4) identify potential reinforcers.


Module 5: Implementing an Instruction-Based COA

Module 5 outlines the steps to implement an instruction-based COA, including general session procedures that remain consistent across sessions and suggestions for the types of work conditions that should be selected and compared within and across sessions.


Module 6: Troubleshooting Tips

Module 6 describes several tips for troubleshooting common implementation issues. You will learn how to proceed if the student responds in unexpected ways during the assessment.


Module 7: Data Collection

Module 7 explains how to collect data during instruction-based COAs. You will learn which student behavior is measured, two options for data collection, and how to record data during the assessment.

Module 7 Resources

Module 8: Data Display and Interpretation

Module 8 provides suggestions for displaying the data you collect during an instruction-based COA and how to interpret those data.


Module 9: Using Results to Inform Intervention

Module 9 reviews suggestions for how to use results from an instruction-based COA to inform a reinforcement contingency that is likely to increase student engagement and work completion.