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Measurement

The document outlines measurement techniques for behavior analysis, distinguishing between continuous and discontinuous measurement methods. It details various recording methods such as frequency, duration, and different types of interval recording, as well as graphing techniques like line graphs and scatter plots. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of data collection accuracy, including concepts of accuracy, reliability, and validity in behavior measurement.

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Tehreem Zahra
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26 views3 pages

Measurement

The document outlines measurement techniques for behavior analysis, distinguishing between continuous and discontinuous measurement methods. It details various recording methods such as frequency, duration, and different types of interval recording, as well as graphing techniques like line graphs and scatter plots. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of data collection accuracy, including concepts of accuracy, reliability, and validity in behavior measurement.

Uploaded by

Tehreem Zahra
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

RBT Exam – Measurement

Continuous Measurement

• Recording every instance of behavior (e.g., frequency, duration).

1. Frequency
• Counting how many times a behavior occurs.
2. Duration
• Measuring how long a behavior lasts.
3. Latency
• Time between instruction and behavior onset.
4. Inter-response Time (IRT)
• Time between two occurrences of the same behavior.
5. Rate
• Total count per time

Discontinuous Measurement

• Sampling the behavior (e.g., partial interval, whole interval, momentary time
sampling).

1. Partial Interval Recording


• Record if the behavior occurred at any time during the interval.
• Use when you want to decrease behavior.
• May overestimate behavior.

2. Whole Interval Recording


• Record only if the behavior occurred for the entire interval.
• Use when you want to increase behavior.
• May underestimate behavior.

3. Momentary Time Sampling


• Record if the behavior is occurring at the end of the interval.
• Good for easy data collection over longer periods.
• Can either over- or underestimate behavior.
Permanent Product Recording

• Measuring the outcome or result of behavior (e.g., worksheets completed).

Graphing Data

• Line graphs (most common), proper labeling of axes, plotting data points.

1. Line Graph (Most Common in ABA)

• Used for: Tracking behavior over time.


• X-axis: Time (e.g., days, sessions).
• Y-axis: Behavior data (e.g., frequency, duration).
• Shows trends, levels, variability.
• Used most often in behavior plans and data review.

2. Bar Graph (Histogram)

• Used for: Comparing different conditions or groups.


• Not good for showing change over time.
• Example: Comparing behaviors across different settings or people.

3. Cumulative Record

• Used for: Continuous behaviors that are being added up (usually frequency).
• Line never decreases—it either stays flat (no behavior) or increases.
• Often used in Skinner’s operant conditioning research.

4. Scatter Plot

• Used for: Identifying patterns in time (e.g., what time of day a behavior occurs
most).
• Helps identify temporal patterns.
• X-axis = time, Y-axis = occurrence of behavior.

Data Collection Accuracy

• Recording behavior reliably and correctly.

1. Accuracy

• Definition: The extent to which recorded data matches the actual behavior.
• Example: If a child screamed 5 times and you recorded 5, your data is accurate.
• Inaccurate data = incorrect conclusions about behavior.

🔁 2. Reliability

• Definition: The consistency of measurement over time or between observers.


• Example: Two RBTs independently observe the same behavior and get the same
results.
• Measured using interobserver agreement (IOA).

🎯 3. Validity

• Definition: The extent to which you're measuring what you intend to measure.
• Example: If you're tracking “aggression” but only record yelling (and ignore
hitting), your data is not valid.
• It answers: Is this the right measure for the target behavior?

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