Data Collection & Measurement Techniques Flashcards

Which data collection method involves directly watching inmate behavior without interaction?

Answer: Direct observation

Direct observation allows officers to record behavior as it occurs without influencing the subject.

In corrections, a 'baseline measurement' is used to:

Answer: Establish a starting point for comparison

A baseline measurement captures the initial condition so future measurements can show change over time.

Which type of data is best described as categorical and non-numerical?

Answer: Nominal data

Nominal data classifies items into categories with no inherent order or numerical value, such as race or housing unit.

When documenting an incident, the MOST important characteristic of recorded data is that it be:

Answer: Accurate and objective

Accurate, objective documentation ensures the record is reliable for investigations, legal proceedings, and trend analysis.

A corrections officer tracks how many disciplinary infractions occur per month. This is an example of:

Answer: Time-series data collection

Collecting the same measurement at regular intervals over time constitutes a time-series approach.

Which measurement scale has a true zero point, allowing meaningful ratios?

Answer: Ratio

Ratio scales, such as number of days served, have an absolute zero, making statements like 'twice as long' meaningful.

An officer notices an error in a completed incident report. The correct action is to:

Answer: Draw a single line through the error, initial it, and write the correction

Proper documentation procedure requires a single line through errors with initials and the correction to maintain the document's integrity.