Cost-effective models for delivering behaviour analysis teaching in UK schools and local authorities

Education programmes based on behaviour analysis are often used to teach children with learning disabilities. A common application of behaviour analysis is Early Intensive Behaviour Intervention (EIBI), which is evidence-based, but most children in the UK do not have access to this approach. EIBI is usually implemented for 30 to 40 hours per week, over two years. High levels of supervision from behaviour analysts are essential to ensure EIBI's effectiveness. A recent cost-effectiveness study concluded that EIBI was not cost-effective: while the children make progress relative to treatment as usual, the outcomes did not justify the cost of the intervention. Other low-cost models of delivery need to be considered. School-based models used in the UK may provide cost-effective and sustainable ways to use applied behaviour analysis in schools. They could be used in other local authorities to increase access to an education that includes behaviour analysis.