Discussion





Similar to the two examples in the Learning Resources, be sure your coding form includes the following components:

1. Coding categories for your three to five behaviors of interest 2. Operational definitions for the coding categories (i.e., the behaviors that will be

under observation) 3. Episodes, which are the three to five situations or conditions for which the

observed behaviors will occur and subsequently will be coded. 4. Coding instructions that you, and other trained observers, will follow.

Prepare to upload your coding form as an attachment (in Word or RTF format) to your posting.

Post a response to the following.

In the first line of your post, state the topic of your hypothetical observational study (e.g., “Pet Owner Behavior in Dog Park”). In the main body of your post:

Briefly describe your hypothetical, naturalistic, systematic behavior observational study idea, including the setting, why you are interested in studying the behavior in the setting, and what you hope to learn related to your question or prediction. Explain whether you (and/or other trained observers) would be an active participant or a concealed observer during the observation and the rationale why. Describe what safeguards you would have in place to try to minimize or prevent participant reactivity. For reader context, briefly describe the types of behavior and the episodes you included on your Coding Form. There is no need to go into details here, as the detailed information should be included in your Coding Form. Attach the Coding Form you created (either Word or RTF file).

Note: Your initial response should be supported with scholarly evidence from your research and/or the Learning Resources and properly cited in APA format. You may state your opinion and/or provide personal examples; however, you must also back up



Important Note: You can use the Systematic Behavior Coding Form examples in the Learning Resources for ideas, but you must come up with a different topic and create a form that is entirely your own.

BY DAY 3