Membership, Belonging, and Development of “Soft Skills” within a PBS framework

Filmed at Setting the Stage for Success: Positive Behavior Support in School, Home and Community – October 19, 2018

Part of a video learning stream on Positive Behavior Support.

In this presentation, Dr. Knight articulates recent research and ideology regarding the importance of membership and belonging along with development of soft skills (e.g., communication, problem-solving) within a PBS framework.

Victoria Knight, PhD, Assistant Professor, Department of Educational and Counselling Psychology and Special Education, University of British Columbia

Victoria Knight has more than 20 years of experience working with students who have autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Her research interests include: (a) applying principles and tactics derived from ABA to promote learning of academics, especially in the areas of STEM; and (b) evaluation and dissemination of evidence-based practices for students with ASD. She has published, presented, and trained educators in these areas internationally. Dr. Knight serves on the editorial boards of journals, including The Journal of Special Education, Research and Practice for Persons with Severe Disabilities and Focus on Autism and Developmental Disabilities.

Part 1: Introduction – Where do the ideas of membership, belonging, and “soft skills” fit within Positive Behavior Support?


Part 2: Recommendations from the literature and individuals with ASD


Part 3: An example of using shared activities to enhance membership, belonging, and “soft skill” development


Part 4: How does the instruction of soft skills “fit” into PBS?