Pre-2027 Standards
The set of BACB fieldwork requirements based on the 5th edition task list, applicable to candidates who began fieldwork before the 2027 standards took effect. Features monthly hour caps of 130, count-based observations, and required supervision contacts.
Definition
The pre-2027 standards refer to the set of BACB fieldwork requirements based on the 5th edition task list, which governs candidates who began their fieldwork before the 2027 standards took effect. If your fieldwork start date falls under these standards, your entire fieldwork experience is governed by the pre-2027 rules, even if you complete your hours after 2027.
Several key features distinguish the pre-2027 standards from the newer rules. The monthly hour cap is set at 130 hours, compared to 160 under 2027 standards. Observation requirements are count-based, meaning you need a specific number of observation instances per month rather than a minimum duration. And the supervision contact requirement is active: 4 contacts per month for supervised fieldwork, 6 for concentrated. These per-month requirements add an administrative tracking burden that the 2027 standards eliminated.
Candidates under pre-2027 standards face a unique challenge: much of the guidance and discussion in the field is shifting toward 2027 rules, which can create confusion about which requirements apply to you. The critical thing is to know which standards govern your fieldwork and to track against those specific rules, not the rules you see discussed most frequently. Your supervisor and training program should be clear about which edition applies to your situation.
Why This Matters
If you started your fieldwork before the 2027 standards took effect, you are likely operating under pre-2027 rules. The key differences are lower monthly hour caps, count-based (not duration-based) observation requirements, and mandatory supervision contacts.
Examples
- Monthly hour cap of 130 hours vs. 160 under 2027 standards
- Supervision contacts required: 4/month (supervised) or 6/month (concentrated)
- Observation requirements are count-based, not duration-based
How ABA Fieldwork Tracker handles this
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