Ohio Assessments for Educators (OAE) Special Education Practice Exam 2026 - Free Special Education Practice Questions and Study Guide

The first step in conducting a Functional Behavioral Assessment (FBA) is to describe the student's behavior in concise, observation-based terms. This is essential because accurately defining the behavior allows educators and professionals to understand what specific actions or instances need to be addressed. Being specific and observational ensures that everyone involved has a clear understanding of the behavior and can consistently identify it in various settings.

Defining the behavior in such a manner creates a solid foundation for gathering more information and developing interventions. It moves beyond generalizations and focuses on observable actions, which are critical for collecting reliable data throughout the assessment process. This clarity helps in identifying triggers or antecedents and potential consequences of the behavior, driving the entire FBA process toward more effective outcomes.

Other steps, such as reviewing academic records or conducting interviews with parents, come later in the process to gather context and additional insights, but initially defining the behavior is crucial for successful implementation of the FBA.