Having problems with message search?
Get SMART about Training
Kathy Sdao, MA, CAAB
September 26-27, 2009
Columbia, MD
Kathy Sdao, MA, CAAB
September 26-27, 2009
Columbia, MD
Over the last twenty years, many dog trainers have made efforts to increase their use of positive reinforcement while minimizing their use of painful or anxiety-provoking punishments. This evolution toward a more humane approach to modifying behavior has far-reaching impact on dogs and trainers alike. But when we opt to avoid using “sticks” to motivate our dogs, we must make a commitment to become SMART about the use of “carrots” – positive reinforcers. Trainers who understand the science and practical applications of behavioral reinforcement gain the ability to be more creative and less coercive.
The acronym SMART stands for “See, Mark and Reward Training”; it summarizes the fundamental sequence of behaviors a trainer performs when using reinforcement effectively. We’ll discuss in detail each of these core skills – observation of the animal’s behaviors, pinpointing the desired behavior with a meaningful marker signal, and providing powerful rewards.
Through use of lecture, demonstrations and video, this seminar will explore all aspects of positive reinforcement: types, frequency, timing, placement, use of conditioned reinforcers, creation of new reinforcers, schedules of reinforcement, satiation, the use of distractions as reinforcers, and what reinforcement cannot accomplish.
13 CEUs for CPDT
12 CEUs for IAABC
For complete information go to www.dogsofcourse.com or contact Dana Crevling at 508/529-3568, M -F 8am - 7pm EST or Crevling@...
- Bonnie Bartlett
Offline 
Send Email