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Part 2: Behavioral Data Collection
Part 2: Behavioral Data Collection
Sampling & Recording Methods
Sampling & Recording Methods
Focal sampling is one type of sampling method, where a single individual is chosen and observed for a set amount of time.
Scan sampling is when all individuals in the group (or field of view) are observed at once.
Continuous recording is where every change in behavior is recorded, noting the time of each new behavior.
Instantaneous recording is where the behavior of the individual is noted at set time intervals (e.g. every 30 seconds, every 5 minutes, etc).
Watch the following 2min30sec video of wild Kinda baboons in Zambia.
Note there are four individuals in the following positions at the start of the video (from L to R): Infant, Young Female, Adult Male, Adult Female.
You will use the following ethogram and short-hand codes to record the behavior in this short video using two different methods.
First, use Focal Sampling with Continuous Recording methods. Your ‘focal animal’ is the Adult Male. Remember to note the start time of each behavior in one column and the behavior code in the other column.
After you finish, re-watch the video and use Scan Sampling with Instantaneous Recording, recording the behavior of the whole group at 30-second intervals. At every 30-second scan, record the behavior code that each individual is engaging in. You may need to watch a few seconds before the ‘scan’ to understand the context. Remember, there is no fast-forward button in the wild!
The Google Sheet linked below contains the ethogram, and a template for the two data sheets you need to collect data. You can collect your data in one of two ways:
1) Create a Google Sheet of your own. You can do this by opening the Google Sheet (linked below), Clicking File - Make a Copy. This will save it to your own Google Drive.
2) Use the data sheets as a template and collect your data by hand with a piece of paper.
Password for video: humanevolution
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