C.9 Select a measurement procedure to obtain representative data that accounts for the critical dimension of the behavior and environmental constraints

Total Interval Recording: The observer records whether the target behavior occurred throughout the entire interval. Monitoring behaviors that require sustained engagement or consistency. Examples: An athletic trainer records whether an athlete maintains a proper plank position for one minute. A teacher tracks whether a student stays seated throughout a class period.

Partial Interval Recording: The observer records whether the target behavior occurred at any point during the interval. Capturing behaviors that may occur briefly but are significant. Examples: A parent tracks whether a child manipulates materials during a 10-minute art activity. A caregiver records whether a patient exhibits signs of agitation during 5 minutes.

Momentary Time Sampling:The observer records whether the target behavior occurs at the end of the interval. Quick and efficient observations of behaviors that don’t need constant monitoring. Examples: A teacher checks if a student is writing during a Spanish exam at the end of each 2-minute interval. A parent notes whether a child is playing with toys at the end of each 30-minute interval

Planned Activity Check (PLACHECK): The observer records whether the target behavior is occurring at the end of the interval but focuses on a group’s behavior. Measuring group engagement or participation. Examples: A yoga instructor checks whether all students are in the correct position at the end of a 5-minute interval. A teacher observes whether all students are paying attention at the end of 10 minutes.

Word	Definition
Continuous measurement	A type of measurement in which each instance of the target behavior is recorded.
Discontinuous measurement	A type of measurement in which only some, but not all, instances of the target behavior are recorded.
Event recording	A type of discontinuous measurement in which the number of times a behavior occurs is recorded. It may also include discrete testing behaviors.
Interval	A unit of time used to divide observation time. Intervals can be any length, such as 10 seconds, 5 minutes, or 1 hour.

Choosing the right measurement method allows parents and teachers to:

• Obtain accurate and relevant data tailored to the behavior of interest.

• Adapt observations to fit the constraints of the environment.

• Make data-informed decisions to support individual or group progress.

Questions to Consider

• Is the behavior consistent, brief, or variable?

• Are you observing an individual or a group?

• How much time or resources are available for data collection?

By using the appropriate measurement procedure, we can better understand behaviors and implement strategies to promote positive outcomes.