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A Two-interval Forced-choice Task for Multisensory Comparisons
Published on: November 9, 2018
A comparison of momentary time sampling and partial-interval recording for evaluating functional relations.
Maeve G Meany-Daboul1, Eileen M Roscoe, Jason C Bourret
1New England Center for Children, Southboro, MA 01772, USA.
Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis
|November 1, 2007
Summary
Momentary time sampling (MTS) and partial-interval recording (PIR) often align with continuous recording methods in treatment analysis. However, MTS results more closely matched duration data, while PIR results aligned better with frequency data.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral analysis
- Applied behavior analysis
- Research methodology
Background:
- Accurate data collection is crucial for effective treatment analysis in behavioral interventions.
- Discontinuous recording methods like momentary time sampling (MTS) and partial-interval recording (PIR) are often used as efficient alternatives to continuous recording.
- The impact of these discontinuous methods on treatment interpretation requires careful examination.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare momentary time sampling (MTS) and partial-interval recording (PIR) against continuous-duration recording and frequency recording.
- To determine if the choice of data recording method influences the interpretation of treatment effects in behavioral analysis.
- To assess the reliability of discontinuous recording methods in applied behavior analysis settings.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of five previously collected treatment analysis datasets.
- Creation of separate graphic displays for duration, frequency, MTS, and PIR data.
- Evaluation of treatment effects using expert panel interviews and structured visual inspection criteria.
Main Results:
- Interpretations of treatment effects based on MTS and PIR often corresponded with those from continuous frequency or duration recording.
- Momentary time sampling (MTS) interpretations showed a slightly higher concordance with duration recording.
- Partial-interval recording (PIR) interpretations demonstrated a slightly higher concordance with frequency recording.
Conclusions:
- Both MTS and PIR can yield interpretations similar to continuous recording methods in treatment analyses.
- The specific discontinuous method employed (MTS vs. PIR) may introduce subtle differences in how treatment effects align with duration versus frequency data.
- Researchers should consider the potential impact of recording methods on data interpretation when analyzing behavioral interventions.
