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Published on: January 23, 2017
An evaluation of time-sample measures of behavior
J Powell1, A Martindale, S Kulp
1California State College, California, Pennsylvania.
Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis
|January 1, 1975
Summary
Time sampling methods for measuring behavior can lead to inaccurate results. The frequency of sampling and the specific method (whole, partial, or momentary interval time sampling) significantly impact measurement error.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral science
- Psychological measurement
Background:
- Accurate measurement of behavior is crucial in various scientific disciplines.
- Time sampling is a common method for observing and recording behavior, but its accuracy can be affected by various factors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the measurement error associated with different time sampling methods.
- To determine how sampling frequency and scoring criteria influence the accuracy of time-sample measures compared to continuous measures.
Main Methods:
- Continuous and time-sample measures of a secretary's in-seat behavior were collected.
- Three time sampling methods were employed: whole-interval, partial-interval, and momentary time sampling.
- The frequency of sample measurements was systematically varied.
Main Results:
- Whole-interval time sampling consistently underestimated continuous behavior measures.
- Partial-interval time sampling consistently overestimated continuous behavior measures.
- Momentary time sampling resulted in both overestimations and underestimations with roughly equal frequency.
- Increased sampling frequency led to greater agreement between sample and continuous measures.
Conclusions:
- Measurement error in interval time sampling is influenced by the mean time per response.
- The magnitude and direction of measurement error are not consistent across different experimental conditions.
- Choosing the appropriate time sampling method and frequency is critical for accurate behavioral assessment.
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