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What exactly is a subject matter expert—and how should their input actually be used? In this free CEU, we’ll break down the role of SMEs, how ethical SME work is conducted, and how to spot when expertise is being used as a smokescreen to justify biased decisions, like the recent removal of DEI requirements in our field.

A FREE CEU FOR BCBAS WHO VALUE INTEGRITY, NOT OPTICS

What does it really mean to be a subject matter expert—and how should SME input be used when making decisions that impact the future of our field?

In this free CEU, we’ll unpack how ethical SME work is conducted, where things can go wrong, and why transparency, diversity, and rigorous process matter more than ever. 

If you’ve been frustrated by recent changes like the BACB'S removal of DEI requirements, this is your chance to understand a piece of what should have happened, why it matters, and how we move forward. 

FREE

ON DEMAND

Released on May 20, 2025

THE ETHICS OF EXPERTISE: WHAT SME WORK SHOULD LOOK LIKE 

Some of the discoveries you'll make in this course:

What a subject matter expert actually is (and what they are not.)

The difference between credible expertise and performative participation

How SME input should be collected, analyzed, and reported ethically.

Why diversity of expertise matters just as much as depth

Red flags that signal a flawed or biased SME process.

That ethics means more than checking boxes—it means showing your work

What you can expect from SMEs in different contexts

How to ask better questions when organizations cite “SME studies"

EARN CONTINUING EDUCATION UNITS (CEUS) 

OP-23-10336

By completing this course you will earn:   

  
1.5 Ethics CEU

WHY ATTEND?

MACRO-LEVEL IMPACT

Because knowing how to assess expertise makes you a stronger advocate for ethical, data-driven decisions, in your workplace, your community, and the profession at large.

KNOWLEDGE LEADS TO BETTER ADVOCACY

Because when you understand how systems are shaped, you’re better equipped to lead change—not just react to it.

IT STARTS WITH US

Because doing better as a field needs people like you; behavior analysts who care about integrity, inclusion, and meaningful impact.

Empower behavior analysis with the tools to lead, question, and influence decisions that affect our entire field.Whether you're managing teams, participating in policy discussions, or advocating for change, knowing how to evaluate expertise is a professional asset.

You'll leave with more than just CEUs. You’ll leave with clarity, confidence, and a sharper lens for spotting when something doesn’t add up.


MEET YOUR INSTRUCTOR

KRISTYN PETERSON

PHD, BCBA, LBA, CWP, LSSMBB
Kristyn is a fierce supporter of DEIA, and not just because she happens to be a disabled behavior analyst. She's aware of the macro-level impacts DEIA has on behavior analysts, RBTs, and the people who need behavior analytic services. 

While she isn't an expert in DEIA, she does know a thing or two about SMEs; having functioned as one in higher education, technology, consulting, learning and development. She also works with SMEs everyday, and trains people to implement SME models, so everyone can operate from a position of their strengths. 

ABOUT US

MORALIS MACHINA

In a nutshell? 

We're behavioral scientists on a mission to make corporate culture less toxic and more top-notch. 

Come find out how to make real waves in the workplace. 

COURSE CONTENTS

FAQ

How many CEUs will I get?

If you're BACB certified, completing the course will get you 1.5 Ethics CEUs

Who is this course for? 

This Course is for Behavior Analysts who are seeking to understand what SMEs are, what they do, and the best practices associated with them. 

Maybe you're hoping to gain clarity on where the BACB went wrong, or maybe you're interested in how you could be a SME now or in the future. Either way, you'll take something meaningful away from this one. 

Are there any pre-requisite skills? 

We recommend reading the March 2025 BACB newsletter beforehand, for context. But nope - no actual pre-requisites needed. 

What if I'm not certified through the BACB? 

That's okay! In lieu of CEUs, you'll get a certificate of completion.