Which method would best describe data collection on the frequency of target behavior over time?

The best method to describe data collection on the frequency of target behavior over time is continuous recording. Continuous recording involves observing a behavior and recording every instance of it as it occurs. This approach provides a complete record of the occurrences of a behavior, allowing for precise data on its frequency throughout a specified period.

In practice, continuous recording allows practitioners to analyze trends in behavior over time, which is essential for understanding patterns and making informed decisions regarding behavior interventions. For example, if a teacher is tracking instances of a student's disruptive behavior during class, continuous recording would enable them to note each occurrence, thereby providing a clear picture of how frequently the behavior manifests and how it might vary throughout the day.

While scatterplots can visualize data over time, they do not inherently describe the frequency of target behavior but rather illustrate relationships between two variables. Functional analysis is primarily a method for identifying the function of a behavior, and narrative recording focuses on providing detailed qualitative descriptions rather than counting instances. Thus, the most effective method for capturing frequency data is indeed continuous recording.