Discontinuous Measurement
In Plain Language
Sampling behavior rather than capturing every occurrence or its full duration.
ABA Definition
Measurement that uses interval or momentary samples to estimate behavior and does not preserve a complete record of all occurrences.
Everyday Example
Checking whether someone is reading at selected moments samples their activity.
ABA Example
A classroom observer records behavior using momentary checks instead of continuous timing.
How It May Be Used
Sampling can introduce bias; match the method to the question and report it clearly.