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Data Collection and Analysis Using Computer Technology: Hands-on Discrete and Sequential Applications of the BEST System |
Friday, May 26, 2006 |
2:00 PM–5:00 PM |
Harris |
Area: PRA; Domain: Applied Research |
CE Instructor: Thomas L. Sharpe, Jr., Ed.D. |
THOMAS L. SHARPE, JR. (University of Nevada, Las Vegas), DANIEL W. BALDERSON (Weber State University), MATTHEW R. MARTIN (Illinois State University), JOHN KOPERWAS (n/a) |
Description: The workshop will provide hands on application of a sophisticated software package designed to collect and analyze discrete and time-based behavioral data. The program is particularly useful to advanced graduate students and behavioral psychologists interested in analyzing complex configurations of behaviors which are emitted at high rates, oftentimes overlap in time, and which are context dependent. Discussion includes an introduction to (a) recommended procedures when collecting time-based data in the live setting and from videotape records, and (b) computer generated discrete and sequential descriptions, graphic and statistical analyses, and reliability comparisons of discrete and sequential data. Participants will be provided with a complimentary copy of the complete software package on CD ROM, and a .pdf file summary copy of a compatible research methods text published by Sage Publications as a function of workshop participation. ***While some computer hardware will be provided, it is recommended that workshop participants bring their own IBM compatible laptop hardware to facilitate hands-on workshop interactions. |
Learning Objectives: Workshop participants will exit with software-based data collection and analysis competencies, including the ability to (a) construct and apply systemic observation systems, (b) generate a time-based behavioral record using an inclusive overlapping category system, (c) perform traditional and sequential analyses using multiple measurement methodologies and interpret Z score transformations, (d) create and edit graphic data representations and apply relevant visual and statistical analyses, (e) conduct reliability and treatment fidelity analyses, and (f) apply a variety of data record edit and merge functions when operating with complex multiple event category systems. Learning Objective 1: The participants will be able to discuss in conceptual and applied ways the principles and practice of discrete and sequential behavior analysis methods. Learning Objective 2: The participants will be able to apply a range of computer-based data collection, reliability, and measurement techniques to their particular behavior analysis interests. Learning Objective 3: The participants will be able to understand and apply a range of computer-based descriptive and statistical data analysis techniques in relation to discrete and sequential measurement sets. Learning Objective 4: The participants will be able to construct a variety of behavior graphs and apply appropriate analysis techniques to the graph types covered. |
Activities: Activities include (a) review of traditional behavior analysis recording methods, (b) introduction to, and hands on application of, a computer-based package designed to enhance behavior analyses of complex interactive settings, and (c) detailed hands-on demonstration of data collection features, discrete and sequential analysis capabilities, within and across data-file graphic representations, and a variety of reliability, treatment fidelity, and data manipulation and editing functions. |
Audience: Advanced graduate students and behavior analysts working in experimental and applied settings who are interested in research and development related to the interactive nature of behavior in situations where study of multiple behaviors and events, multiple participants, and changing setting variables are present. Those working in educational and social science settings and who are challenged with how to describe and analyze highly interactive behavioral transactions should find the workshop experience and complimentary software particularly appealing to a wide range of research and assessment applications. |
Content Area: Methodology |
Instruction Level: Intermediate |