What does partial interval recording (PIR) require from the observer?

Partial interval recording (PIR) involves documenting whether a specific behavior occurs at any point during a designated observation interval. This method is particularly useful for measuring behaviors that may not happen continuously or that occur infrequently. By recording a behavior as having occurred if it happens at any time within the interval, observers can capture more occurrences of the behavior, even if they are brief.

This approach allows for a broader understanding of how often a behavior is exhibited within specific time frames, making it suitable for tracking behaviors that may be problematic or that require intervention. It does not focus on the duration or latency of the behavior, which distinguishes it from other methods such as duration recording or latency recording. In essence, PIR emphasizes the presence of the target behavior during the observation period, regardless of how long it lasts.