Momentary time sampling
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Momentary time sampling records whether a behavior is happening at the exact moment each interval ends, rather than watching continuously.
Topic: Measurement and data collection
In plain terms
The observer sets intervals, such as every 2 minutes, and glances at the student when each one ends. If the behavior is happening at that instant, the interval is marked yes. It is less precise than continuous recording but much easier for a busy teacher, which makes it practical for behaviors that last a while, like engagement or staying in an assigned area.
How it shows up in an IEP
Goals using this method report the percent of samples: "engaged in the assigned task in at least 80% of 2-minute momentary time samples across 3 class periods." A vibrating timer helps staff sample on schedule.
Example
During a 30-minute independent work block, a vibrating timer cues the teacher every 3 minutes. The student is working at 6 of the 10 checks, or 60%.
Not the same as Interval recording
Interval recording watches the whole interval. Momentary time sampling looks only at the instant the interval ends. Read the definition of Interval recording.
Related terms
- Interval recordingInterval recording divides an observation into short, equal intervals and records whether a behavior occurred during each one.
- Duration recordingDuration recording measures how long a behavior lasts, from the moment it starts to the moment it ends.
- Target behaviorA target behavior is the specific behavior chosen to measure and change, defined clearly enough that anyone could count it.
- Data sheetA data sheet is a form for recording a student's performance on an IEP goal in a consistent way each session.
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