Partial-interval recording marks an interval as an occurrence if the behavior happens at any point during that interval, even briefly.
Example
The observer uses 10-second intervals. A learner leaves their seat for 2 seconds in one interval. That interval is scored as an occurrence.
Key points
- It tends to overestimate how much behavior occurs.
- It is useful for behaviors you want to reduce and for behaviors that are hard to count.
- Only whether the behavior occurred is recorded, not how many times or for how long.
Exam tip
The clue is “at any point” in the interval. Compare it with whole-interval recording, which needs the behavior throughout.
Common mistake
Forgetting that one occurrence anywhere in the interval counts, which is why it tends to overestimate.
Quick check
Does partial-interval recording tend to over- or underestimate? Overestimate.
Keep studying
RBT glossary · Discontinuous measurement · Whole-interval recording · Momentary time sampling · Flashcards · Study guide
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