Comparison of data-collection methods in a behavioral intervention program for children with pervasive developmental...

Area of Science:

• Behavioral Psychology
• Developmental Disorders Research
• Applied Behavior Analysis

Background:

• Previous research suggested differences in mastery and maintenance based on data collection methods (first-trial vs. all-trials).
• Cummings and Carr (2009) found first-trial data identified mastery sooner, while all-trial data improved skill maintenance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To replicate the findings of Cummings and Carr (2009) regarding data collection methods in behavioral intervention programs.
• To determine if first-trial data collection versus all-trial data collection impacts the indication of mastery or skill maintenance.

Main Methods:

• A replication study was conducted on a behavioral intervention program for children with pervasive developmental disorders.
• Data collection methods compared were: collecting data on all trials versus only the first trial in a session.

Main Results:

• No significant differences were observed in the indication of mastery between the two data collection methods.
• No significant differences were observed in skill maintenance between the two data collection methods.

Conclusions:

• The findings do not support the previous study's conclusions regarding differential effects of data collection methods on mastery and maintenance.
• The choice between first-trial and all-trial data collection may not critically impact outcomes in this context.