Reliability of Frequent Retrospective Behavior Ratings for Elementary School Students with EBD

Abstract

This study is a preliminary examination of the reliability of frequent retrospective teacher behavior ratings. Frequent retrospective behavior ratings are an approach for creating scales that can be used to monitor individual behavioral progress. In this study, the approach is used to progress monitor behavioral individualized education plan goals for 7 students with, or at risk of, emotional and behavioral disorders. Reliability was examined for both quantitative-based and qualitative judgment-based retrospective teacher behavior ratings. Quantitative-based behavior ratings focused primarily on frequency and duration scales, whereas qualitative-based behavior ratings focused on topography and intensity scales. Findings indicated that reliability can be adequately achieved, although there is variability depending on the type of scale. Implications are discussed as they relate to progress monitoring individual behavioral goals and examining responsiveness to intervention.