RBT Module 2: Lesson 2 – Readings

Essential Reading

Becoming an RBT requires completing a 40-hour training program based on the BACB-approved RBT Task List. To understand what this course covers, read the RBT Task List. Once training is completed, you’ll need to undergo a competency assessment to qualify for certification — the Competency Assessment document outlines this process.

RBT Task List View the RBT Task List (PDF)
Competency Assessment View the RBT Competency Assessment (PDF)

Then, read the following transcript of a Q&A session between a BCBA and RBT students, which gives practical insights into the RBT role and team structures:

Q&A Session Transcript

BCBA: Welcome to our workshop on the role of the Registered Behavior Technician (RBT). Let’s start with your primary responsibilities.
RBT Student 1: What are the primary responsibilities of an RBT?
BCBA: Implement treatment plans developed by a BCBA or BCaBA — you’ll work directly with clients to apply interventions.
RBT Student 2: Do RBTs design interventions?
BCBA: No, designing interventions and assessments is the responsibility of the BCBA. As an RBT, your tasks are based on your training and competence.
RBT Student 3: What specific tasks might we perform?
BCBA: Data collection, measurement, implementing teaching procedures (like discrete trial training), assisting in assessments, implementing behavior reduction strategies, accurate reporting, and crisis management with appropriate techniques.
RBT Student 1: What’s the tiered service delivery model?
BCBA: We may have just a BCBA overseeing RBTs, or a BCBA supported by a BCaBA, both supervising RBTs. This model ensures effective, scalable, and cost-efficient service delivery.

Optional Viewing

These videos offer further insights into the RBT role and certification process:

Conversation Exercise

Complete the Conversation Exercise with FRED, our AI-powered chatbot. This helps reinforce your understanding through guided questions.

Click for instructions on accessing and using FRED

Click the conversation icon in the bottom right corner of your screen, or open FRED directly here.

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For guidance on using FRED effectively, read our instructions here.

Reflection Exercise

After completing the reading and viewing tasks, reflect on your learning using the prompts below. Your reflection should be:

  • Between 100 and 500 words (about 5–7 sentences minimum)
  • Written in your preferred language
  • Expressed in your own words — do not copy text from chatbots, websites, or this course

You’ll receive an email copy of your reflection to aid your RBT exam preparation.

Click to view Reflection Prompts & Example

Reflection Prompts (use one or more):

  1. Summarise Key Concepts: What are the main ideas you learned from the reading and videos?
  2. Define in Your Own Words: How would you explain these concepts simply?
  3. Importance and Connections: Why is understanding the role of the RBT important for ethical and effective practice?
  4. Practical Applications: Where could these concepts be useful in your current or future work?
  5. Insights: What aspects of the materials did you find surprising, helpful, or difficult to understand?

Example Reflection:

This lesson helped me clarify what the RBT role really involves. I used to think RBTs had more control over planning, but I now understand that planning is the BCBA’s responsibility. I also didn’t know how important the tiered model was for maintaining quality. Seeing the tasks RBTs handle — like data collection and intervention delivery — made me feel both more confident and aware of the responsibility involved. I especially liked the Q&A format, since it felt like the questions I might ask myself. I now understand why supervision is so important, and I feel better prepared to contribute ideas to team meetings while respecting the boundaries of my role.

When you’re ready, submit your reflection below:

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