A BCBA’s Guide to Documentation and Fieldwork Experience

Working in the field of behavior analysis often requires you to keep detailed records, especially when it comes to documenting fieldwork. It can be overwhelming trying to figure out where to start when it comes to creating a unique documentation system that meets your needs and those of your supervisor. Don’t worry; in this post I break down exactly how to document fieldwork hours in a way that will ensure you stay organized and confident you are on the right path through your training process.

SO, WHAT IS FIELDWORK DOCUMENTATION?

Fieldwork Documentation is the process of recording information related to the observations, interventions, and outcomes of a particular client treatment session over the course of 18 months (on average). 1500-2000 hours have to be accrued throughout this process and the number of hours is determined by what is offered through your graduate coursework. This type of documentation is essential for providing evidence to further progress you towards sitting for the actual BCBA exam. It also serves as a way for supervisors to monitor progress and ensure that their trainees are meeting all requirements for certification. 

HOW DO YOU CREATE AN EFFECTIVE FIELDWORK DOCUMENTATION SYSTEM?

When creating a unique fieldwork documentation system, there are several important elements that need to be taken into consideration. 

First, You should be knowledgeable in all the policies and procedures related to the fieldwork process as a Trainee or a Supervisor. These procedures and policies are outlined in the BACB handbook.

Second, You need to develop an organized filing system for your notes and records related to each case study or research project that you work on during your training process. As a Supervisor or Trainee, having this information organized and in one place allows you to easily prepare reports and evaluate progress. 

With these two key elements in mind, I have created a web-based app to do exactly that. 

Welcome to Tracker!

Tracker! Is a unique documentation system that allows you to easily track your progress through your training hours. It helps you organize your #restricted vs. #unrestricted hours, follow supervision guidelines (5% vs. 10%), and adhere to the expectation of the board (if audited) to keep all records/documents for 7 years. Having all of this information in one place will make it easier for both you and your supervisor to have an easier time reviewing progress and making changes when needed based on what you need to learn when training to become a BCBA. Using the guided task-list within Tracker! Allows the supervisor and Trainee to monitor progress and ensure mastery is met, prior to studying for the BCBA exam. 

WOULDN’T IT BE NICE TO SIT FOR THE BCBA EXAM AND FEEL CONFIDENT KNOWING YOU HAD THE TRAINING FOR EACH TASK-LIST TOPIC?

Additionally, having an organized filing system ensures that any confidential information remains secure at all times. 

WOULDN’T IT BE NICE TO SIGN INTO ONE PLATFORM THAT STORES YOUR NOTES, ALLOWS YOUR SUPERVISOR TO ANALYZE AND APPROVE YOUR DOCUMENTATION IN REAL-TIME, AND STORE ALL MONTHLY AND FINAL VERIFICATION FORMS?

An efficient and effective fieldwork process as well as an organized documentation system will help ensure that all relevant documents remain secure while keeping both you as the Trainee or Supervisor up-to-date on the progress being made throughout the course training.

Tracker! Is the system that keeps stress at bay and everyone enjoying the process. 

With these tips in mind, we wish you luck in becoming an amazing behavior analyst!