Observation Techniques

Event Sampling

Observations focus on particular events to build up a pattern of a child's behaviour over a period of days or weeks. For example to discover what provokes tantrums, or how a child reacts to leaving their carer at the start of each day in nursery.

event samples are a useful way to detect if a child has a behaviour problem that needs help or referral to another professional.

event samples help to clarify what really happens during a tantrum. For example is the child provoked, does the event happen at certain times of day, how long does the tantrum last?

event samples focus on perceived problems and attempt to find solutions to manage the child's behaviour more effectively. The observer needs to be focused and remember to note the details as the event occurs.

Now we know what event samples are
observations focused on particular events to build up a pattern of a child's behaviour over a period of days or weeks.

So the next step is consider an appropriate example of this observation technique.

Click for a demonstration of an event sample technique

Points to remember when using an event sampling technique

Event sampling is writing a diary focused on one child's response to the present situation
State the aim to give a clear focus to your work
Include a title to say what behaviour is observed
Give the context of the observation to explain your aims more fully
Include a antecedent to explain what lead up to the behaviour
Describe the child's behaviour in some detail
Include the consequences to show what happens next.
This shows strategies that reinforce the behaviour.

Before you go off somewhere else check your understanding!

1. What exactly is event sampling?
Choose an option.
Is this observations focused on particular events to build up a pattern of a child's behaviour over a period of days or weeks.
Is this observing a child completing an activity?
Is this repeated short focused snapshots of child development used to collect precise data over a long period of time?

2. When is event sampling the most appropriate technique to use?
Choose an option.
To observe two children painting a picture.
To observe a child's aggressive behaviour at playtime to judge which strategies are successful in managing this behaviour.
To observe a baby learning to crawl.
Find out more about different observation techniques

Introduction

Anecdotal Schedule Charts and Pictograms

Time Sampling Event Sampling Target Child

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Introduction
Anecdotal	Schedule	Charts and Pictograms
Time Sampling	Event Sampling	Target Child