Duration Measurement printable pdf download

Determining How to Chart Behavior

There are several different ways to look at behaviors. Behavior can be measured as a

percentage, number correct, frequency, latency, and/or duration. Following is an explanation of

when each might be used. Charts are available to assist with measuring, once it is decided

how best to measure the behavior. When looking at changing behavior, there needs to be an

examination of why the behavior is occurring. Two forms are included that may help in this

cause.

Duration – a measure of the length of time a behavior continues. This can be used when a

behavior has a clear start and end time and you want to reduce or lengthen the time of the

behavior. Examples: Johnny cried for 8 minutes during science period. Sarah was on task for

6 minutes during 2

hour.

Frequency – the number of times a behavior occurs in a set time period. Examples: Johnny

spoke out 6 times without permission in a 45 minute class period. Suzie raised her hand 4

times during a 15 minute time period.

Latency – a measure of the time lapse between a stimulus and the desired student response.

This can be used when you want to reduce the length of the time it takes for the student to start

an activity. Examples: When requested to get out his text book, Johnny complied in a 3

minute time period. George went to PE 4 minutes after being asked by staff.

Number correct – this could be used when the number of trails differs from time to time.

Examples: Today with 5 opportunities to play with peers, Johnny played with peers 2 out of 5

times (40%) while at the carpet. Sally was able to button her pants 1 time out of 3 trials (33%).

Percentage – this is used when the number of trials remains constant. Examples: Today,

Johnny can recite 3 out of the 5 (50%) appropriate ways to start a conversation with peers.

Sally read 16 of 25 sight words (64%).

Functional Assessment Screening Tool – Adapted from the Florida Center on Self-injury, this

form is a simple screening tool designed to identify factors that may influence the occurrence of

behaviors.

****Many additional behavior charts are available at

Duration Measurement