time sampling
in direct observation, a data collection strategy that involves noting and recording the occurrence of a target behavior whenever it is seen during a stated time interval. The process may involve fixed time periods (e.g., every 5 minutes) or random time intervals. For example, a researcher may observe a group of children for 10 seconds every 5 minutes for a specific 30-minute period each day, noting the occurrence or nonoccurrence of particular behaviors (overt actions). Observations taken during these periods are known as time samples. An individual score is assigned on the basis of one or more of the following: (a) the number of time units in which the defined behavior occurs, (b) the total frequency of occurrence of the defined behavior in the total observational time, and (c) the average frequency of the defined behavior per unit of time. See partial-interval recording; whole-interval recording.