Advancing Behavior-Mapping Methodology: Developing an iPad Application to Assess Science Learning in Preschoolers

• In Event: Mobile Devices: Does the Reality Match the Promise?

Abstract

Behavior mapping data collection methodology has been used for 40 years to aid environmental psychologists and landscape architects in studying the connection between behaviors and the physical characteristics of space. Since then the behavior mapping method has been adopted and refined to study behaviors in a variety of places (zoos, museums, neighborhood parks). With the increased use of digital mobile devices, researchers have improved several aspects of this data collection process. This paper reports on novel developments to this methodology, including digitizing the entire process and adapting behavior mapping to assess the science inquiry of preschoolers on intentionally designed nature oriented play areas called playscapes. We also report on the inter-rater reliability of our team in using this method.

Authors

• Robert Alan Wight, University of Cincinnati

• Catherine V. Maltbie, University of Cincinnati

• Mona Maria Jenkins, University of Cincinnati

• Victoria W. Carr, University of Cincinnati

• Kyle Hartshorn