multiple probe design
A single-subject research design that reduces repeated measurement by probing skills intermittently across baseline conditions before intervention.
Full Definition
A variation of the multiple baseline design used in behavioral research that minimizes repeated exposure to baseline conditions by conducting intermittent probes rather than continuous measurement. This design is particularly useful when repeated testing might influence performance or when the behavior being measured could improve through practice alone. Multiple probe designs are commonly employed when assessing skill acquisition across different behaviors, settings, or participants in applied behavior analysis research.
Usage
Usage note: Often confused with multiple baseline design; the key difference is the intermittent rather than continuous measurement during baseline phases.
In Context
- "The researcher selected a multiple probe design to evaluate the effectiveness of the reading intervention across different word sets." — Research methodology documentation
- "Given concerns about practice effects, the team implemented a multiple probe design rather than continuous baseline measurement." — Clinical research protocol