Which assessment method involves collecting data about a child's behavior in different settings?

The assessment method that involves collecting data about a child's behavior in different settings is behavioral observation. This technique allows school psychologists to directly observe how a child interacts with their environment, peers, and adults in various contexts, such as the classroom, playground, or at home. By gathering data across multiple settings, practitioners can gain a comprehensive understanding of the child's behavioral patterns, triggers, and adaptations, which is crucial for developing effective interventions.

Behavioral observation is particularly valuable because it provides real-time information that reflects the child's actual behavior rather than relying solely on self-reports or indirect measures. This firsthand evidence can highlight discrepancies in behavior across different environments, which is essential for identifying potential issues related to conditions such as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or autism spectrum disorder.

Other assessment methods, while useful, do not focus on direct observation across varied settings. Standardized testing primarily evaluates specific skills or knowledge through uniform assessments without capturing contextual behaviors. Parent interviews gather subjective insights about a child's behavior but do not provide observable data from varied environments. Academic performance reviews analyze a child's academic achievements but do not account for behavioral aspects outside of the educational context.