A practical guide to partial and whole interval recording for behavior analysts and ABA providers
In Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), accurate data collection is essential for understanding how often and how consistently a behavior occurs. When dealing with frequent or continuous behaviors, using interval recording in ABA is one of the most efficient and reliable methods.
Whether you’re using partial interval recording or whole interval recording, this approach helps estimate how often a behavior occurs—without requiring constant tallying. It’s ideal for busy environments like classrooms, clinics, or therapy sessions where continuous frequency or duration tracking isn’t practical.
What You’ll Learn
- What interval recording is and when to use it
- The difference between partial interval and whole interval recording
- How Hi Rasmus simplifies interval recording and program setup for BCBAs and providers
What Is Interval Recording in ABA?
Interval recording is a data-collection method used in ABA to measure behaviors that occur frequently or for extended periods. The observer divides a session, or observation period, into equal time intervals (e.g., 10 seconds, 30 seconds, 1 minute) and records whether the target behavior occurred during each interval.
There are two main types of interval recording in ABA:
Partial Interval Recording
Mark the behavior as “occurred” if it happens at any point during the interval.
Best for behaviors you want to decrease, such as vocal disruptions or out-of-seat behavior.
Whole Interval Recording
Mark the behavior only if it occurs throughout the entire interval.
Best for behaviors you want to increase, such as staying on task or engaging with peers.
Ideal Use Cases
- High-frequency behaviors (e.g., vocalizations, repetitive movements)
- Behaviors difficult to count in real time
- Sessions where the therapist or teacher must stay engaged with the learner
Why Use Hi Rasmus for Interval Recording in ABA?
While interval data collection is powerful, manual tracking can lead to errors—missed timers, incomplete data, and distracted observers all impact reliability.
Hi Rasmus automates and streamlines interval recording so both BCBAs and providers can collect accurate data in real time, every session.
For Providers: Real-Time, Effortless Data Collection
Hi Rasmus makes interval recording in ABA intuitive and distraction-free for RBTs and technicians:
- Audible alerts signal when intervals begin and end — no need to watch a timer
- Tap-to-record interface lets you mark occurrences instantly.
- Pause and resume timers without losing data integrity.
- Automatic safeguards exclude incomplete intervals from reports.
Everything happens seamlessly in session, so providers stay focused on the client—not the clipboard.
For BCBAs: Fully Customizable Program Design
Hi Rasmus gives behavior analysts the flexibility to configure interval recording exactly how each program requires:
- Sync with session timers for consistent, reliable data across staff.
- Custom interval lengths and alert settings for clinical precision.
- Track multiple behaviors within a single program or isolate targets individually.
- Select partial or whole interval recording per goal.
You get complete control over program design—without adding complexity.
Key Benefits of Using Hi Rasmus for Interval Recording in ABA
When it comes to interval recording in ABA, Hi Rasmus makes the process easier, faster, and more accurate, helping both providers and BCBAs collect high-quality data without stress. Here’s how:
Timed, guided alerts
Providers never miss an interval. Automated alerts signal when each interval begins and ends, ensuring consistent, reliable data collection throughout every session.
Seamless tap-to-mark recording
Data collection becomes effortless. With a simple tap, providers can record whether the behavior occurred—no paperwork, no distractions, just focused interaction with the client.
Flexible setup for any program
Hi Rasmus adapts to your needs. Configure custom interval lengths, choose between partial or whole-interval recording, and tailor programs to fit any behavior or ABA goal.
Data integrity safeguards
The system automatically filters out incomplete or missing data, giving you cleaner, more accurate reports you can trust.
Real-time insights for faster decisions
BCBAs and supervisors can make informed decisions on the spot, which improves treatment precision and outcomes.
Hi Rasmus bridges the gap between clinical accuracy and day-to-day usability, ensuring your entire care team collects consistent, high-quality data every time.
