Observation Method Selection Flowchart
A Decision-Making Model for Selecting Measurement Procedures
Based on Cooper, Heron & Heward (2020)
START HERE
Is the problem behavior observable?
YES
Is the problem behavior discrete and countable?
YES
Are observer resources sufficient to count each instance?
YES
Can problem behavior occur at any time?
YES
EVENT RECORDING
(Frequency Count)
NO
EVENT RECORDING
(% of Opportunities)
NO
Are observer resources sufficient to continuously monitor?
YES
PARTIAL INTERVAL
Recording
NO
MOMENTARY TIME
Sampling
NO
Is a behavior dimension the primary concern?
YES
Duration?
DURATION
Recording*
Latency?
LATENCY
Recording*
Intensity?
INTENSITY
Recording*
NO
EVENT
Recording
NO
Does the behavior produce a measurable, physical change?
YES
PERMANENT
PRODUCT
Recording
NO
Consult with supervisor
about indirect measures, covert observation, or other behaviors to observe
* These methods also generate a frequency count
Method Quick Reference
Event Recording:
Count each occurrence
Partial Interval:
Did it occur at any point?
Momentary Time:
Check at interval end
Duration:
How long does it last?
Latency:
Time to respond
Permanent Product:
Physical evidence