Time Sampling is an alternative method for logging behavioral information:
Instead of logging behavior as it appears, like is done in the default Event Sampling method, predefined intervals are observed. Per interval, the observer enters the appropriate Code(s), if a behavior occurs within that interval.
This method is basically a relic from times of forms-based observations, without a computer. But it is still a good method to log rather vague changes like the atmosphere is a room full off people or emotional changes of a test person.
IMPORTANT: If your time sampling based coding method was developed for pen & paper based analysis, we advise you to re-think this method and switch to Event based coding, because this usually enables you to gain a far more detailed insight on the actual frequencies and duration of observed behavior!
If required, for comparison with older studies, it is also possible to export the data in whatever Intervall you need.
INTERACT offers two approaches, for those who want to code their video in fixed intervals:
 | Use Fixed Intervals with Duration - This is the regular Time Sampling method in INTERACT. It is based on Events with identical length (fixed intervals). This method uses automatically created Events with fixed length. How to create those intervals is described in Create predefined intervals. |
| Use Markers at Fixed Intervals - If you need to log Codes at a fixed interval, but are not interested in having this exact duration logged with your Codes, you can create Marker-Events every so many seconds or frames, while jumping through your video at a predefined Step width. |
To automatically split a predefined period in identical fragments of a specified length, INTERACT offers a special command, described in Create predefined intervals. The empty Events created that way, allow you to judge the behavior or situation per interval.