The Effects of Observation Conspicuousness on Data Collection Timeliness

ABSTRACT Timely and accurate data collection is an essential component of successful behavior‐analytic practice. Nevertheless, concerns regarding data collection integrity (DCI) are widespread among practicing behavior analysts. This preliminary study examined the impact of conspicuous and inconspicuous measurement on data collection timeliness with one direct care staff member in a special education school setting serving students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This study compared the percentage of timely data entry in an electronic data collection (EDC) system across conspicuous (i.e., obvious or apparent) and inconspicuous (i.e., not obvious or apparent) measurement conditions that were created by the supervisor being present and the disclosure of the EDC system's monitoring capabilities to the participant. The results indicated that timely data collection may be more likely to occur under conspicuous measurement conditions, even in the absence of a supervisor. These findings suggest that awareness of performance monitoring, either by a supervisor or an automated system, can enhance timeliness, potentially as a result of observer reactivity.