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Behavior analysis and the R&D paradigm

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Abstract

This paper considers research and development (R&D) as a style of investigation that holds promise for the field of behavior analysis. Contrasted with academic-style research, R&D tends to be highly targeted toward achievement of specific outcomes, which are determined by a user community. R&D is typically multidisciplinary in character and is coordinated by a funding source. R&D usually includes extensive field testing and systematically addresses technology transfer. A program of R&D focused on detector dogs serves as an exemplar of this approach for behavior analysis.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Psychology, 211 Thach, Auburn University, Alabama, 36849-5532, Auburn, USA

    J. M. Johnston

Authors
  1. J. M. Johnston
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Corresponding author

Correspondence to J. M. Johnston.

Additional information

I am grateful to Richard Foxx, Sigrid Glenn, and Hank Pennypacker for their comments on an earlier version of this paper. The research program described in the paper is largely the result of the considerable contributions of Paul Waggoner (now Director of the Canine Olfactory Detection Laboratory) and Marc Williams (previously Director of the Canine Field Research Facility). In addition, over the more than 10 years of this research program, many graduate and undergraduate students, as well as technical staff of the Institute for Biological Detection Systems, have contributed enormously to the success of the canine program. This research has been or is presently funded by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, the Federal Aviation Administration, the Office of National Drug Control Policy, and the Technical Support Working Group through the Office of Special Technology, among other organizations. I am particularly grateful to Susan F. Hallowell of the FAA and James A. Petrousky of the Office of Special Technology for their support.

An earlier version of this paper was delivered as the presidential address at the 23rd annual convention of the Association for Behavior Analysis. I have recently returned to regular teaching and other departmental duties and am no longer involved with the canine program.

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Johnston, J.M. Behavior analysis and the R&D paradigm. BEHAV ANALYST 23, 141–148 (2000). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF03392007

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF03392007

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