Getting Your Data Into SSDforR

Abstract

This chapter covers how to measure target behaviors and use common software to record and edit client data. Readers are then shown how to import data into R and use the SSD for R functions to analyze their data. The first part of this chapter focuses on the type of data that is most appropriate to record and some common issues related to collecting these. Four different types of measurement are covered, each of which has its own strengths and weaknesses. These include direct behavioral observations, standardized scales, individual rating scales, and logs. When selecting one or more methods of measuring a target behavior, readers will want to consider the specific needs of their clients, the identified problem, and the practice or research situation. The second part of this chapter demonstrates how to use Excel or other spreadsheet programs to quickly and effectively record this data.