Accuracy of Long Momentary Time-Sampling Intervals: Effects of Errors in the Timing of Observations

1991 ◽  
Vol 9 (2) ◽  
pp. 160-165 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ron Edwards ◽  
Kathleen Kearns ◽  
Daniel H. Tingstrom
1991 ◽  
Vol 19 (4) ◽  
pp. 333-336 ◽  
Author(s):  
Robert M. Adams

Momentary time sampling (MTS) is described as an unbiased method of estimating time spent engaging in target behaviour. Conclusions that MTS with long sampling intervals or for short sessions results in large error are based on studies which use too few observations (a too-small sample size) to expect small sampling error. Partial interval (PI) sampling is a biased method, and the degree of bias changes as the characteristics of the behaviour change, a particular problem for intervention studies.


2017 ◽  
Vol 19 (1) ◽  
pp. 68-74 ◽  
Author(s):  
Heather Erwin ◽  
Aaron Beighle ◽  
Ash Routen ◽  
Ben Montemayor

The purpose of this study was to explore the feasibility of sit-to-stand desks in a middle school classroom. Participants used sit-to-stand desks during health class. Momentary time sampling was used for physical activity and behavioral observations. Results indicate students sat 37%, stood 59%, and walked 4% of the time. Misbehaviors occurred 4% of the observed period. The following themes emerged: focus, freedom, distractions, and design. Sit-to-stand desks appear to encourage standing during instruction while simultaneously limiting misbehaviors. Students indicated some distractions but were generally positive toward desk implementation and suggested they supported learning behaviors. The teacher echoed most of the student themes.


1990 ◽  
Vol 18 (2) ◽  
pp. 121-127 ◽  
Author(s):  
Alex Harrop ◽  
Michael Daniels ◽  
Christine Foulkes

The inherent properties of momentary time sampling (MTS) and partial interval recording (PIR) are examined. Findings derived from computer simulation investigations are discussed in terms of the mode of operation of the two time-sampling techniques. It is seen that the advantage of MTS is that it can, under certain restricted circumstances, estimate absolute duration of behaviour occurring. The important disadvantage of MTS is that it is relatively insensitive when estimating degree of change of behaviour. In contrast, although PIR cannot accurately measure absolute duration it is more sensitive to behaviour change than is MTS. It is concluded that the practitioner who wishes to use one of these methods of time sampling must carefully consider the aims and possible effects of the investigation before deciding which method to use.


2007 ◽  
Vol 40 (3) ◽  
pp. 501-514 ◽  
Author(s):  
Maeve G. Meany-Daboul ◽  
Eileen M. Roscoe ◽  
Jason C. Bourret ◽  
William H. Ahearn

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