Operant Conditioning and Behavior Management

Leading zoos use operant conditioning and behavior management to improve animal care in ways that reduce stress and encourage natural social-species development.  Operant conditioning and behavior management are key tools in modern zookeeping, allowing animal care professionals to work with animals cooperatively to manage their health and welfare. Standardized management systems that can accompany animals when they move between zoological facilities is key to maintaining best practices in accredited organizations. Using a case study at the San Diego Zoo, you will learn the basics of animal learning and training, including operant-behavior techniques, different training systems, and the importance of trust-based systems of care. The ABCs of training are introduced.

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course length: 1 - 2 hours
fulfills requirement for: Animal Care Certificate