EBQ Stage 4

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>>Introduction

Stage 1
Stage 2
Stage 3
Stage 4

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Preamble

Whilst earlier stages of the EBQ focus on understanding horse behaviour from the perspective of genetics, ethology, learning theory and the relevant physiology, in EBQ Stage 4, students are introduced for the first time to leading-edge scientific thinking relating to consciousness in animals, including the horse. Once the basic aspects of consciousness are understood, the student will re-visit many of the subjects studied in Stages 1 to 3 learning to make comparisons between these and conscious processes in animals.

Additionally, Stage 4 incorporates advanced horse training well beyond than that undertaken in previous stages. In so doing, Stage 4 raises the standard and attitudes towards training horses to a level more akin to that being used by the most innovative of primate trainers. As always, the emphasis remains on maximizing the use of positive reinforcement as part of behavioural modification therapy in helping horses that have behavioural problems.
By offering an advanced Stage 4 qualification, the Natural Animal Centre (NAC) aims to raise the international standard of professional equine behavioural advice available to horse owners, equine welfare organizations and veterinary surgeons by giving them the opportunity to seek advice from equine behaviourists with a superior, trustworthy qualification.

Course format

Other than in exceptional circumstances, the entry level for Stage 4 is graduation of Stage 3 and an invitation from the course supervisor. The complete course comprises 7 modules (23 days of lectures, assessments and practical study) held at the NAC as well as a research dissertation to be undertaken at home. Modules need to be completed in chronological order. Note: the student is required to bring a horse (and its companion) to two modules held at the NAC for practical horse training tuition.
Students are expected to supplement their study at the NAC with Required Reading as well as practice at home a number of training tasks with a horse.

MODULE 1 - Aim: Consciousness I (Three Days)

	theory of mind and aspects of abstract thought
	concept formation in animals, including horses
	free will versus Stimulus-Response learning

MODULE 2 - Aim: Consciousness II (Three Days)

	attachment theory re-visited with respect to consciousness
	quantum theory and animal behaviour
	introduction to Ethics

MODULE 3 - Aim: Consciousness III (Three Days)

	developing ethical philosophies
	welfare revisited – from the perspective of ethical appreciation
	the case for compassionate modification of the behaviour of horses

MODULE 4 - Aim: Welfare (Three Days)

	abnormal behaviours – from the perspective of genotype, phenotype and consciousness
	costs to horses of adaptive attempts – an advanced understanding

MODULE 5 - Aim: Advanced horse training and behavioural practice I (Four Days)

(practical sessions working with horses are alternated with advanced learning theory sessions beyond Stage 3, including) :
	helping owners become aware of equine consciousness – a practical approach
	horses as performance animals – or much-loved pets? The debate re-visited
	unhappy horses – unhappy owners? A practical understanding of owner non-compliance

MODULE 6 - Aim: Advanced horse training and behavioural practice II (Four Days)

(practical sessions working with horses are alternated with advanced learning theory sessions beyond Stage 3, including) :
	the NAC concept of ‘animal flourishing’ – working with owners not just to ‘fix’ problems but to cause horses to ‘flourish’
	developing models of equine flourishing – Stage 4 graduates’ goals and responsibilities in the equine marketplace

MODULE 7 (a) - Aim: Conclusion and Final Assessments (Three Days)

Apart from teaching as normal on the first day of the module, final Assessments will be made on the succeeding two days and comprise five sections:
	Formal assessment of consultation with a client and a horse
	Written analysis of behaviour presented in the form of a short DVD
	Written assessments (3 papers: General, Consciousness and a Case Study)

MODULE 7 (b) & (c)* - Aim: Prepare Case Studies and Clicker Training Project

In Module 7 (b), students submit a DVD of a training project undertaken with a horse.

In Module 7 (c), students submit a research project in a subject of your own choice within the field of horse behaviour and training. The research is designed to give students an insight into gathering scientific data in the field and extrapolating conclusions from their results. Earlier modules during Stage 4 will contain Research Practicals, so that students will be able to work towards identifying and designing their own research project in Module 7 (c).

Course Price Details

OTHER ISSUES

Becoming a more effective behaviourist - both verbally and practically

Throughout Stage 4, practical sessions are undertaken designed to assist the development of the behaviourist’s consultation skills. This includes sessions on self-development as well as opportunities to practice imparting highly technical information in plain English. Considerable practical emphasis will be placed on the NAC approach to the horse during a consultation.

Time limit for Completion of EBQ

There is a time limit of two years in which to complete EBQ (Stage 4).

Continuing Professional Development (CPD)

Retention of this qualification requires annual renewal that takes the form of attendance of a CPD course at least once per year at the NAC (either in Wales or in Africa) where graduates of the EBQ will be given the latest up-to-date research on equines and other relevant animals. In this way, the NAC will ensure the integrity and quality of the EBQ remains intact. Currently, CPD is offered twice a year in spring and autumn.

Registration, Supervision, and the NAC Code of Ethics

On graduation of the SABQ (Exotics), the option of registering with the NAC is available, registered graduates work under the supervision of the NAC and sign up to the NAC Code of Practice and NAC Ethical Guidelines.

Payment Terms and Required Reading

Students may pay as they register for each module. Upon registration, the full fee is due and part payments will not be accepted. The Required Reading list for a module is sent to the student on confirmation of registration. Reading material is for the account of students.