4 Data Collection Strategies for Special Education

As a special educator, there are 4 main ways to collect data in the classroom. It all depends on the type of behavior that you want to track. Here’s the breakdown for all types of data collection techniques and data collection examples.

1. Frequency, Event & Rate Data Collection

First and foremost, this is the number of times a behavior will happen in a specific time period. This is also for behaviors that have a clear beginning and end. Do not use these: if the behavior is occurring at a high rate that an accurate count is impossible (pencil tapping).

Event recording is best for behaviors with a clear beginning and end. This is also quantitative data collection methods. Event recording is used to measure behaviors such as:

• Task initiation and protests to task demands
• Inappropriate sitting and littering
• Correct and incorrect academic responses
• Tardiness

2. Duration Data Collection

Next, this method shows the length of the behavior. Use this method for the length of time the student engages in the behavior. Use when the behavior has a clear beginning and end. Do not use: if the behavior is at a high frequency or the behavior starts and stops constantly.

Also, duration recording is great for behaviors that have a beginning and ending. I use it to track behaviors at such high rates that it would be difficult to get an accurate frequency count (e.g., number of taps during pencil, finger, or toe tapping).

Duration recording has been used to measure behaviors such as:

• On Task: Looking at the assignment, writing and asking questions related to the topic, using assigned materials, and following teacher directions

3. Interval Data Collection

Furthermore, interval recording shows if a behavior occurred during a particular period. An observation period is divided into brief intervals. At the end of each of these, record whether or not a behavior has occurred.

I use interval recording when it is difficult to constantly track the behavior. Interval recording is used for constant behaviors or for those behaviors that occur at high rates.

4. Time Sampling Recording Data Collection

Finally, time samples are like interval recording. I record small samples of time within larger intervals. Look at the student during a time period (30 seconds). Record whether the behavior is occurring at that instant. Here are the primary data collection methods:

• Talking
• On-task/off task behavior
• Screaming,
• In-seat/out-of-seat.

Look at more data collection strategies here! Or here!

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