Data Collection
Data collection is the foundation of ABA therapy — “literally the A in ABA.”
Why Data Collection Matters
Accurate and consistent data during each session allows us to:
- Monitor client progress
- Identify patterns in behavior
- Adjust treatment strategies
- Meet the unique needs of each client
- Provide evidence-based care
“Every data point helps ensure that we’re providing the most effective, individualized care possible.”
Before the Session
Know the Programming
- Your BCBA will have client goals and programming in HiRasmus
- Review targets before each session
- Understand what is being measured and why
New Case Preparation
If you’re new to a case:
- Request 30 minutes of indirect time
- Review all client information in HiRasmus
- Understand current targets and data collection methods
- Ask your BCBA any questions about programming
During the Session
Starting Data Collection
- Open HiRasmus app
- Click “Start Session” when face-to-face with client
- Have the app ready and accessible throughout
Best Practices
- Take data throughout the session, not just at the end
- Record responses as they happen
- Be accurate — don’t estimate or round
- Use the correct measurement for each target
Types of Data You May Collect
- Trial-by-trial data (correct/incorrect responses)
- Frequency counts (how often a behavior occurs)
- Duration (how long a behavior lasts)
- Interval data (behavior occurrence within time intervals)
- ABC data (Antecedent-Behavior-Consequence)
Data Collection Tools
HiRasmus (Primary)
- All session data is collected through the HiRasmus app
- Real-time data entry during sessions
- Automatic syncing with treatment plans
Paper Data Sheets (Supplemental)
Available in SharePoint for specific needs:
- ABC Data Sheets
- Interval Data Sheets
- Scatterplot Data Sheets
- Behavior Rating Scales
- Frequency/Intensity Data Sheets
Location: Cloud Drives/SharePoint/TeachersPayTeachers Stimuli_Shared Folder/BehaviorDataSheetsEDITABLEMegaPackforSpecialEdRTI-1/
After the Session
Completing Documentation
- End session in HiRasmus with correct time
- Review data for accuracy before finalizing
- Click “Send Now” to sync with Aloha
- Sign provider signature
Data Review
- BCBAs analyze graphs from collected data
- Data informs treatment plan updates
- Progress reports are generated from this data
Common Data Collection Errors
| Error | Impact | Prevention |
|---|---|---|
| Delayed entry | Memory inaccuracies | Enter data in real-time |
| Guessing responses | Invalid data | Only record what you observe |
| Missing trials | Incomplete picture | Track all opportunities |
| Wrong measurement type | Misleading trends | Verify with BCBA |
| Forgetting to start session | Lost data | Start immediately when face-to-face |
Questions About Data
Always reach out to your BCBA with questions about:
- What targets to run
- How to collect data for specific programs
- Whether a response should count as correct
- How to handle unexpected situations
- Clarification on measurement procedures
Related SOPs
- Session Notes — Completing documentation
- Session Protocol — Full session workflow
- HiRasmus Training — Software training
- Progress Reporting — How data becomes reports