Which data collection method is appropriate for free operant preference assessments?

The appropriate data collection method for free operant preference assessments is momentary time sampling. This technique involves observing the individual at specific intervals to determine whether they are engaging in a particular behavior or activity at that moment. This method is particularly useful in free operant settings because it allows for the assessment of preferences without excessively interrupting the individual's ongoing activities.

In free operant preference assessments, subjects can freely choose among various activities or items, so momentary time sampling can effectively capture their engagement with those options at predetermined times, providing valuable data on preference patterns while still respecting the individual's autonomy and ongoing choices.

This method is advantageous in contexts where behaviors are expected to occur at different times rather than being continuous or easily captured through other recording techniques.