Applied Behavior Analysis: The science of studying the observable patterns of behavior and the environmental interactions. The techniques allow the observer to have clear knowledge of how specific interventions or techniques may be affecting certain behaviors.

Functional Assessment: Also known as Functional Behavioral Assessment. The process of collecting information in order to develop hypothesis statements regarding the variables that maintain and predict problem behavior. Functional assessment strategies include indirect assessment methods, direct observation, and functional analysis.

IDEA: Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, and the parallel statutes of many states guarantees the right to a free and appropriate public education in the least restrictive environment for students with disabilities. The law applies to all students between the ages of 3 and 21 who qualify for special education and related services. Local school districts are held responsible for identification and initial evaluation of each student, and interdisciplinary teams work with the student and parents to generate an annual individualized education plan (IEP).

Inclusion: A school reform movement that involves interdisciplinary teams collaborating in order to support students with disabilities within regular education settings. Inclusionary classrooms promote an atmosphere that allows students with various interests and abilities to learn in a shared environment.

Interdisciplinary Team: The team of people from different perspectives or disciplines that join together to problem solve and develop educational and behavior plans. Team members may include the student, parents or other family members, teachers, therapists, community members, job coaches, vocational rehabilitation counselors, and paraprofessionals.

Positive Behavioral Support: A comprehensive set of strategies that are meant to redesign environments in such a way that problem behaviors are prevented or inconsequential, and to teach students new skills, making problem behaviors unnecessary.

Principles of Human Behavior: Principles of behavior describe the relation between behavior and the variables that control it. The basic principles of behavior are the foundation from which positive behavioral support plans are built. Examples of behavioral principles include reinforcement, punishment, extinction, and stimulus control.

Quality of Life: A variety of elements in a student's life including predictability, environmental stability, level of social belonging, empowerment and control, well being and satisfaction.

Social Network: A web of interconnected people who directly or indirectly interact with or influence the student and family. May include but is not limited to family, teachers and other school staff, friends, neighbors, community contacts, and professional support.