ABSTRACT
This chapter describes general issues in measurement and evaluation, with emphasis on direct and systematic measurement of behavior through the use of direct observational recording procedures; reliability; and validity. It focuses on general factors or issues in measurement and evaluation as it relates to single subject research methodology. Formative evaluation, dynamic, emphasizes the frequent and repeated measurement of performance on functional and age-appropriate tasks, assessed under natural conditions, over time. The direct and the frequent measurement of behavior, when paired with a single subject research design, can yield information that can facilitate the design of an effective intervention and a positive change in participants' behavior. The objection that direct measurement procedures are too rigid and time-consuming, and thus detract from teaching or the delivery of therapy, are common complaints heard by university faculty and educational consultants. The initial implementation of systematic measurement procedures may prove time-consuming and cumbersome.
