Which statement best defines the essential information required for reliable data collection?

• A. An objective and observable definition of the behavior targeted for reduction that allows multiple people to identify occurrence and nonoccurrence with reliability and high IOA
• B. A narrative description of preferences
• C. Only the baseline rate
• D. Replacement behavior only

Answer: (A)

Reliable data collection hinges on having a precise, observable definition of the target behavior that anyone can recognize consistently. When the behavior is clearly defined in observable terms, multiple observers can identify when it occurs and when it does not, which leads to high interobserver agreement and dependable data over time. This means the measurement is objective and reproducible, not influenced by personal interpretation.

Narrative descriptions of preferences don’t provide a measurable, observable target for data collection, so they don’t support reliability. Relying only on the baseline rate ignores the need for a clear, shared definition and ongoing agreement among observers. Focusing on a replacement behavior alone doesn’t address how data will be collected reliably across different observers. The essential factor for reliable data is a well-defined, observable target behavior plus procedures that support consistent identification by all observers (IOA).