What families really think about the quality of early intervention centers: a perspective from mixed methods.

BACKGROUND: Families are a fundamental aspect in the current perspective of Early Intervention, and knowing their opinion with quantitative and qualitative research is necessary for its improvement. The objective of this research was to evaluate the quality of the service perceived in Early Intervention Centers and its relationship with satisfaction and future intention, as well as to identify factors that are associated with the perception of users. METHODS: A measurement model of 50 items and an open question to gather qualitative information was used in a sample of 233 participants. A confirmatory factor analysis and a regression analysis were conducted. Regarding the qualitative data, the information was subjected to a thematic content analysis in order to delve into the perception of the participants. RESULTS: The model showed a satisfactory fit and the regression analysis indicated that treatment rooms (ß =  - 0.28) and adaptation of activities (ß = 0.27) have greater weight with respect to satisfaction, whereas for future intention, the factors of greater weight were adaptation of activities (ß = 0.23) and location (ß = 0.20). The qualitative analysis showed three themes: facilitators, barriers and suggestions for improvement. Within facilitators, the participants were satisfied with the Early Intervention professionals, and they made improvement suggestions for the detected barriers to improve the facilities and the follow-up of the child. CONCLUSIONS: The study offers a wide perspective of the perception of the service with an active participation of families in the treatment within the Early Intervention service. This will allow professionals in Early Intervention, service providers and researchers to consider the families as intervention agents capable of providing their opinion and making decisions, and not only as passive elements.

Children and adolescents with eating disorders during COVID-19 confinement: Difficulties and future challenges.

OBJECTIVE: To present the adaptations to treatment protocols made in a child and adolescent eating disorders (ED) unit during the eight-week confinement period mandated in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and examine clinical and treatment variables in the outpatient, day hospital, and inpatient care programs. METHOD: Description of the implementation of a combined teletherapy program for outpatient and day-hospital patients and the adaptations made to the inpatient protocol. Retrospective review of medical records and analysis of general and specific variables related to the pandemic and confinement. RESULTS: We held 1,329 (73.10%) telehealth consultations and 489 (26.9%) face-to-face outpatient visits with 365 patients undergoing treatment in the outpatient clinic or day hospital. Twenty-eight (7.67%) were initial evaluations. Twenty-two patients were newly admitted and 68 ED-related emergencies were attended. Almost half of the children and adolescents studied experienced reactivation of ED symptoms despite treatment, and severe patients (25%) presented self-harm and suicide risk. CONCLUSIONS: The implementation of a combined teletherapy program has enabled continuity of care during confinement for children and adolescents with ED. Delivery of treatment to adolescents in the day hospital program posed the biggest challenge due to their greater degrees of severity and higher hospitalization rates. An adapted inpatient program should be maintained throughout confinement, as the need for hospitalization of children and adolescents with ED does not decrease with lockdown.

Analysis of the Variability of the Game Space in High Performance Football: Implementation of the Generalizability Theory.

The analysis of variability in sport has shown significant growth in recent years. Also, the study of space management in the game field has not been object of research yet. The present study pretends to describe the variability in the use of strategic space in high performance football. To do this, the spatial management of the Spanish men's soccer team when it is in possession of the ball has been analyzed, during its participation in the UEFA Euro 2012 championship. Specifically, 6861 events have been collected and analyzed. Different zoning of the field have been used, and the location of the ball has been recorded in each offensive action. Using the observational methodology as a methodological filter, two types of analysis have been carried out: first, a General Linear Model was implemented to know the variability of the strategic space. Models with two, three, four and five variables have been tested. In order to estimate the degree of accuracy and generalization of the data obtained, the Generalizability Theory was implemented. Next, and in order to estimate the degree of accuracy and generalization of the data obtained, the Generalizability Theory was implemented. The results showed that the model that produces greater variability and better explanation is the four-variable model (P = 0.019; r 2 = 0.838), with the inclusion of the variables match half, rival, move initiation zone and move conclusion zone. Next, an optimization plan was implemented to know the degree of generalization with the Rival, Start Zone (SZ) and Conclusion Zone (CZ) facets. The available results indicate that it is based on an adequate research design in terms of the number of observations. The results of the present study could have a double practical application. On the one hand, the inclusion of the game's space management in training sessions will potentially conceal the true tactical intention. On the other hand, knowing the variability of the strategic space will allow to exploit areas of the optimal playing field to attack the rival team.

Early intervention and perceived quality: Refinement of the inventory of quality in early intervention centers.

The current perspective on early intervention revolves around consideration of the family as a cornerstone, its opinion being essential in providing a quality service. Early intervention centers require an evaluation of the services they perform. The aim of this study was to examine the psychometric properties of the short version of the Inventory of Quality for Early Intervention Centers (IQEIC) and to obtain evidence of its validity and reliability. The sample consisted of 887 families from 21 early intervention centers in Spain, which were randomly divided into 2 groups to conduct a cross-validity analysis: exploratory factor analysis with the first group (n1 = 440), and confirmatory factor analysis with the second group (n2 = 447). A 8 factor structure was obtained in the confirmatory factor analysis that showed a good fit. Both the internal consistency (composite reliability ranging from 0.84 to 0.90) and the convergent (AVE values ranged from 0.12 to 0.50) and discriminant validity were adequate. Lastly, a multigroup analysis (n1 and n2) showed the invariance factorial through the difference in the CFI index. The IQEIC showed satisfactory reliability and validity in this study confirming the proposed model is a valid tool to assess the quality of the service provided in early intervention centers, therefore recommending its application for both research and management.

Spanish validation of the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire for Adolescents (EDE-Q-A): confirmatory factor analyses among a clinical sample.

Most studies of eating disorders (ED) among adolescents have relied on the use of self-report questionnaires given its cost-effectiveness compared to interviews approaches. The Eating Disorders Examination Questionnaire (EDE-Q) is one of the most commonly used self-report measures of eating psychopathology, despite issues regarding the underlying latent structure and its validity in this population. Given the lack of validated measures among Hispanic clinical samples, the current study aimed to validate previously suggested models for the adolescent version (EDE-Q-A) among female teenage patients with ED in Spain (Mage = 15.45, SD = 1.59). Results failed to replicate the theoretical 4-factor structure, and a 2-factor model previously validated in a Hispanic-American community sample showed best fit over a 3-factor and a single-factor model. Excellent levels of internal consistency were observed for the two dimensions of the retained model and for the Global Score of the EDE-Q-A. Significant correlations with well-established measures of ED (Eating Disorders Inventory; EDI-2) and self-esteem are presented as evidence for convergent and concurrent validity. Sensitivity analyses showed a similar pattern of association between the retained model of the EDE-Q-A and the EDI-2. Current findings may contribute to development of evidence-based knowledge on ED among Hispanic clinical populations.

The adolescent onset anorexia nervosa study (ANABEL): Design and baseline results.

The anorexia nervosa adolescent longitudinal biomarker assessment study (ANABEL) is a 2-year longitudinal study. OBJECTIVE: Evaluate several clinical, biochemical, immunological, psychological, and family variables and their interactions in adolescent onset eating disorders (EDs) patients and their 2-year clinical and biological outcome. This article illustrates the framework and the methodology behind the research questions, as well as describing general features of the sample. METHODS: A longitudinal study of 114 adolescents with EDs seeking treatment was performed. Only adolescents were selected during 4 years (2009-2013). The variables were collected at different times: baseline, 6, 12, 18, and 24 months of the start of treatment. Diagnoses were completed through the semi-structured Kiddie-Schedule for Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia interview. RESULTS: At baseline, the mean age was 15.11 (SD = 1.36). The mean ED duration was 10 months (SD = 5.75). The mean body mass index was 16.1 (SD = 1.8). The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition diagnosis at baseline for restrictive anorexia nervosa was 69.6%, 17.4% for purgative anorexia nervosa, and 24.3% for other specified feeding disorder. At 12 months, 19.4% were in partial remission, whereas at 24 months, 13.8% had fully recovered and 29.2% had partially recovered. CONCLUSIONS: There was an acceptable physical and psychopathological improvement during the first year of treatment, with recovery being more evident during the first 6 months.

Observational data analysis using generalizability theory and general and mixed linear models: an empirical study of infant learning and development / Análisis de datos observacionales mediante la Teoría de la Generalizabilidad y la utilización del Modelo Lineal General y Mixto: Un estudio empírico del desarrollo y aprendizaje infantil

Accurate evaluation of early childhood competencies is essential for favoring optimal development, as the first years of life form the foundations for later learning and development. Nonetheless, there are still certain limitations and deficiencies related to how infant learning and development are measured. With the aim of helping to overcome some of the difficulties, in this article we describe the potential and advantages of new data analysis techniques for checking the quality of data collected by the systematic observation of infants and assessing variability. Logical and executive activity of 48 children was observed in three ages (18, 21 and 24 months) using a nomothetic, follow-up and multidimensional observational design. Given the nature of the data analyzed, we provide a detailed methodological and analytical overview of generalizability theory from three perspectives linked to observational methodology: intra- and inter-observer reliability, instrument validity, and sample size estimation, with a particular focus on the participant facet. The aim was to identify the optimal number of facets and levels needed to perform a systematic observational study of very young children. We also discuss the use of other techniques such as general and mixed linear models to analyze variability of learning and development. Results show how the use of Generalizability Theory allows controlling the quality of observational data in a global structure integrating reliability, validity and generalizability (AU)

Una adecuada evaluación de las competencias infantiles tempranas es esencial para potenciar un desarrollo óptimo, pues los primeros años de vida son la base de todo el desarrollo y aprendizaje posterior. Sin embargo, todavía existen ciertas limitaciones y deficiencias en el ámbito de la medición del desarrollo y aprendizaje infantil. Con el objetivo último de contribuir a la mejora de esta situación, este trabajo presenta las posibilidades y ventajas que ofrecen nuevas técnicas de análisis de datos, tanto para controlar la calidad de los datos infantiles registrados a través de observación sistemática como para analizar su variabilidad. Se ha observado en tres edades diferentes (18, 21 y 24 meses) la actividad lógica y ejecutiva de 48 niños usando un diseño observacional nomotético, de seguimiento y multidimensional. Dadas las particularidades de los datos del estudio que presentamos, desde el punto de vista metodológico y su análisis, realizamos análisis pormenorizados a través de la Teoría de la Generalizabilidad en tres vertientes posibles en un estudio observacional: Análisis de la fiabilidad intra e interobservadores, Análisis de la validez del instrumento de observación y Estimación muestral de las facetas estudiadas (en concreto, la de participantes). De esta forma, se pretende optimizar el número de facetas y niveles necesarios para llevar a cabo un estudio de tales características. Además, se utilizan otras técnicas analíticas para conocer la variabilidad del desarrollo y aprendizaje infantil, como son el Modelo Lineal General y el Modelo MIXED. Los resultados indican cómo el uso de la Teoría de la Generalizabilidad permite controlar la calidad de los datos observacionales en una estructura única que integra la fiabilidad, validad y generalizabilidad (AU)

Systematic Observation: Relevance of This Approach in Preschool Executive Function Assessment and Association with Later Academic Skills.

Executive functions (EFs) are high-level cognitive processes that allow us to coordinate our actions, thoughts, and emotions, enabling us to perform complex tasks. An increasing number of studies have highlighted the role of EFs in building a solid foundation for subsequent development and learning and shown that EFs are associated with good adjustment and academic skills. The main objective of this study was to analyze whether EF levels in 44 Spanish children in the last year of preschool were associated with levels of literacy and math skills the following year, that is, in the first year of compulsory education. We used a multi-method design, which consisted of systematic observation to observe preschool children during play and selective methodology to assess their reading, writing, and math skills in the first year of compulsory primary education. General linear modeling was used to estimate the percentage of variability in academic skills in the first year of primary school that was explained by preschool EF abilities. The results showed that preschool EF level, together with participants and the instrument used to assess academic skills, explained 99% of the variance of subsequent academic performance. Another objective was to determine whether our findings were generalizable to the reference population. To make this determination, we estimated the optimal sample size for assessing preschool EFs. To do this, we performed a generalizability analysis. The resulting generalizability coefficient showed that our sample of 44 students was sufficient for assessing preschool EFs. Therefore, our results are generalizable to the reference population. Our results are consistent with previous reports that preschool EF abilities may be associated with subsequent literacy and math skills. Early assessment of EFs may therefore contribute to identifying children who are likely to experience later learning difficulties and guide the design of suitable interventions for the optimization of EFs.

Estimación muestral en la percepción de los servicios deportivos a través de la teoría de la generalizabilidad / Estimation of simple in the perception of the sports services through the generalizability theory

La presente investigación utiliza la Teoría de la Generalizabilidad (TG) aplicada al ámbito de la gestión deportiva con el objetivo de conocer el tamaño muestral adecuado para la evaluación de la calidad percibida. Para ello, se utilizó una estructura compuesta por las facetas ítems (I) y participantes (P), con un diseño totalmente cruzado. Dentro del Modelo Lineal General (GLM), con estas dos facetas, se realizó un análisis de la varianza y se estimó la precisión de generalización. La herramienta empleada fue un cuestionario compuesto por 25 ítems y los participantes, un total de 330, pertenecían a una instalación deportiva de la ciudad de Málaga. Los resultados muestran que el número de participantes utilizado obtuvo un registro fiable (ξρ²(δ) = 0.98), y permitió estimar el nivel de precisión en la generalización para el tamaño muestral empleado (coeficiente de generalizabilidad, ξρ²(Δ) = 0.96), suponiendo de esta manera un importante avance en cuanto a la eficiencia en futuras evaluaciones de servicios deportivos

The present study uses the Generalizability Theory (GT) apply into the sport management area aiming to know the accurate sample size to evaluate the perceived quality. For this purpose, a compound structure was used for the participants (P) and items (I) aspects, with a fully crossed design. Applying general linear model (GLM), with both aspects, a variance analysis was realised and it estimated the generalization's precision. The instrument was a survey composed for 25 items and the sample, in total 330, comes from a fitness centre in the city of Malaga. The obtain results shows a number of participants using a reliable register (ξρ²(δ) = 0.98), and it estimates the precision level in the generalization to the sample size used (generalizability coefficient, ξρ²(Δ) = 0.96), assuming in this side an important progress in relation to the efficiency in upcoming evaluations in sports services

The longitudinal measurement of change: Intraindividual variability in behavior and interindividual differences observed in childhood / Diseños de observación longitudinales: cambio intra-individual y diferencias inter-individuales observados durante la infancia

The study of change in repeated measures studies or longitudinal studies (cross-sectional and/or cross-sequential) is of considerable interest in the field of developmental psychology. Qualitative and quantitative measures of interindividual and intraindividual variability can be used to capture changes in cognitive development. In the present study, through an empirical analysis of infant cognitive development, we investigate whether or not longitudinal (crosssectional/cross-sequential) research designs can be used interchangeably with univariate or multivariate data analysis techniques. Methodologically, longitudinal data can be processed by univariate or multivariate analysis. However, the results and their interpretation may be different, even when the necessary statistical requirements are performed. Current statistical programs incorporate techniques to test for the presence of significant differences in data, regardless of whether these are evaluated by univariate or multivariate analysis. The results of this study, conducted in infants studied at three time points (18, 21 and 24 months), show that both intraindividual and interindividual variability can be detected by repeated measures analyses

El estudio del cambio en estudios de medidas repetidas o estudios longitudinales (cross-sectional y/o cross-sequential) constituye un área de notable interés en el ámbito de la Psicología del Desarrollo. Las medidas (cualitativas/cuantitativas) que tomamos de participantes, bien intraindividualmente bien interindividualmente, permiten capturar cambios del desarrollo cognitivo. Mediante un estudio empírico de desarrollo cognitivo infantil, comprobaremos si los diseños longitudinales (cross-sectional/cross-sequential) pueden utilizarse o no indistintamente con técnicas de análisis de datos uni- o multivariables. Metodológicamente es posible tratar datos longitudinales en alguna de las soluciones aportadas, uni o multivariable. Sin embargo, y aún cumpliendo los requisitos estadísticos necesarios, los resultados y la interpretación de los mismos pueden ser diferentes. Entendemos que hay soluciones en los programas estadísticos actuales que permiten la utilización de técnicas que aseguren si realmente hay diferencias significativas o no en los datos, independientemente de si son tratados con estructuras uni- o multivariables. Los resultados de bebés estudiados en tres momentos temporales (18, 21 y 24 meses) mediante medidas repetidas muestran que la interpretación afecta de igual manera a datos de la variabilidad intra/interindividual

Análisis de la variabilidad del desplazamiento de futbolistas de élite durante una temporada competitiva a partir de un modelo lineal mixto generalizado / Análise da variabilidade do movimento de jogadores de futebol de elite durante uma temporada competitiva de um modelo linear generalizado misto / Analysis of the variability of the movement of elite soccer players during a competitive season of a generalized linear mixed model

Este estudio pretende describir la variabilidad en la distancia recorrida por futbolistas de élite a lo largo de una temporada. Se han analizado las distancias medias recorridas en diferentes rangos de intensidad por los jugadores de un mismo equipo de la segunda división española (Liga Adelante) durante la temporada 2013-14. La distancia total (DT) y metros por minuto (m·min-1) recorrida por los futbolistas fueron registrados utilizando el sistema computerizado TRACAB® system by ChyronHego a 25 frames por segundo, distinguiéndose cinco tipos de intensidades: paradoandando (0-1 Km·h-1), marcha (21 Km·h-1) trote(21 Km·h-1), carrera (<21 Km·h-1) and sprint (>21 Km·h-1). Después de un primer análisis descriptivo, a los datos se les aplicó un análisis lineal mixto generalizado (Linear Mixed). Los resultados mostraron que las distancias recorridas en los rangos de intensidad por encima de 7 Km·h-1 y por debajo de 21 Km·h-1 variaron más que el resto durante la temporada. Esta variabilidad pudo deberse a variables situacionales como: lugar, nivel de los rivales y marcador final. Los resultados de estos análisis podrían tener una doble aplicación. Por un lado, el rendimiento físico de competición no parece ser la mejor manera de conocer el estado de forma del equipo, debido a la variabilidad contextual propia de la competición; siendo, en todo caso, los rangos de intensidad más elevados o los indicadores globales de rendimiento físico (DT y m·min-1) los más adecuados para valorarlo. Por otro, el seguimiento del rendimiento físico puede ser interesante considerarlo para adecuar estrategias de intervención en el proceso de entrenamiento con el objetivo de optimizar el rendimiento físico de los jugadores aplicado a contextos particulares de los partidos (AU)

This study aims at describing the variability in the traveled distance for professional soccer players through a season. Average traveled distances have been analyzed in different ranks of intensity for players of a same team in the Spanish second division (Liga Adelante) during the 2013-2014 season. The total distance traveled (DT) and meters per minute (m·min-1) were recorded using the computerized system TRACAB® system by ChyronHego at 25 frames per second, dinstinguishing between five kinds of intensity: still-moving (0-1 Km·h-1), marching (21 Km·h-1), trotting (21 Km·h-1), running (<21 Km·h-1) and sprinting (>21 Km·h-1). After an initial descriptive analysis, a linear mixed generalized one was applied to the data. The results showed that traveled distances in ranks of intensity over 7 Km·h- 1 and under 21 Km·h-1 varied more than the others during the season. This variability could be due to situational variables such as: place, rivals’ level and final score. The results of this analysis could have a double application. On one hand, the physical performance of the competition doesn’t seem to be the best way to learn about the team’s form, due to the contextual variability of the competition; in any case, the highest ranks of intensity or the global indicators of physical performance (DT and m·min-1) are the most adequate to enhance it. On the other hand, monitoring physical performance can be interesting if considered to improve intervention strategies during the training process with the objective to optimize the players’ physical performance applied to particular contexts of the matches (AU)

Este estudo pretende descrever a variabilidade na distância percorrida por futebolistas de elite ao longo de uma época desportiva. Foram analisadas as distâncias médias percorridas em diferentes séries de intensidade pelos jogadores de uma mesma equipa na segunda divisão espanhola (Liga Adelante) durante a época desportiva 2013-14. A distância total (DT) e metros por minuto (m·min-1) percorridos pelos futebolistas foram recolhidas utilizando o sistema computorizado TRACAB ® system by Chyron-Hego a 25 frames por segundo, distinguindo-se cinco tipos de intensidades: parado-andando (0-1 Km·h-1), marcha (21 Km·h-1), trote (21 Km·h-1), corrida (21 Km·h-1) e sprint (>21 Km·h-1). Após realizar uma análise descritiva, foi aplicada, aos dados, uma análise utilizando o modelo linear generalizado (Linear Mixed). Os resultados mostraram que as distâncias percorridas em séries de intensidade acima de 7 Km·h-1 e abaixo de 21 Km·h- 1 variaram mais do que o resto durante a época. Esta variabilidade pode dever-se a variáveis contextuais como: local, nível dos adversários e resultado do marcador final. Os resultados destas análises podem ter uma dupla aplicação. Por um lado, o rendimento físico de competição não parece ser a melhor forma de conhecer o estado da forma da equipa, devido à variabilidade contextual própria da competição, sendo que em todo o caso, as séries de intensidade mais elevada ou os indicadores globais de rendimento físico (DT e m·min-1) os mais adequados para avaliar o desempenho físico geral. Por outro lado, poderá ser interessante considerar a monitorização do desempenho físico para adequar estratégias de intervenção no processo de treino com o objetivo de otimizar o rendimento físico dos jogadores aplicado a contextos específicos do jogo (AU)

Programas informáticos de registro, control de calidad del dato, y análisis de datos / Observational software, data quality control and data analysis / Programas informáticos de registo, controlo de qualidade e análise de dados

Actualmente, para aplicar procedimientos de observación informatizados en metodología observacional hay que enfrentar numerosas dificultades derivadas de la versatilidad de los datos, del registro de imágenes y de la falta de inmediatez de los resultados. El objetivo de este artículo es presentar una visión retrospectiva y de futuro donde se informa de la interconectividad conseguida con los programas de observación generados en los últimos años. Se presentan los logros conseguidos agilizando la elección, cambio y supresión de los niveles de conducta (criterios y categorías/códigos), incrementando la importación y exportación de los datos del registro entre los programas y la inclusión procesos de cálculo

At present, researchers who wish to apply computerized observational procedures within the context of the observational methodology face numerous difficulties. These difficulties stem from the versatility of the data, the recording of images, and the lack of immediate results. This paper takes both a retrospective and forward look at the field, discussing the interconnectivity that has been achieved through observational software developed in recent years. Specifically, it examines progress in the way in which levels of behaviour are selected, changed and suppressed (criteria and categories/codes), the import and export of data records from one programme to another, and the inclusion of calculation processes

Actualmente, para aplicar procedimentos informatizados de observação na metodologia observacional há que fazer face a inúmeras dificuldades derivadas da versatilidade dos dados, do registo de imagens e da falta de rapidez na obtenção de resultados. O objectivo deste artigo é apresentar uma visão retrospectiva e de futuro, onde se aborda a interligação conseguida com os programas de observação gerados nos últimos anos. Apresentamse os objectivos alcançados através da agilização da escolha, mudança e supressão dos níveis de conducta (critérios e categorias/códigos), incrementando a importação e exportação dos dados de registo entre os programas e a inclusão de processos de cálculo

Aplicación de la TG en el deporte para el estudio de la fiabilidad, validez y estimación de la muestra / Application of the generalizability theory in sport to study the validity, reliability and estimation of smaples / Aplicação da tg no desporto para o estudo da validade, fidelidade e estimação da amostra

La Teoría de la Generalizabilidad (TG) es una teoría de los errores multifaceta que asume que cualquier situación de medida posee infinitas fuentes de variación. En este sentido esta teoría puede aplicarse en el ámbito de la observación con la intención de conocer lainfluencia de estas fuentes de error sobre la medida. De todas las posibilidades, en este trabajo se presentan, a modo de ejemplo, tres aplicaciones de la TG en las primeras fases de una investigación en el ámbito observacional: 1) para el estudio de la validez, 2) para la estimación de la muestra; y, 3) para el estudio de la fiabilidad. Actualmente existen aplicaciones informáticas (GT, EduG o, recientemente, SAGT) que facilitan la implementación de este tipo de análisis que permiten al investigador contar con recursos procedimentales para que las decisiones que tiene que tomar en el proceso de investigación puedan estar justificadas antes de ser implementadas como la muestra necesaria para poder generalizar con precisión o disponer de una herramienta de observación válida y fiable para afrontar el arduo proceso de codificación y registro de las conductas acontecidas en los contextos naturales donde se aplican

The generalizability theory (G theory) is a multifaceted error theory that assumes that any measurement situation possesses infinite sources of variation. In the field of observation, it can therefore be applied to determine the influence of these sources of error on measurements. By way of an example, this paper describes three applications of the G theory in the initial stages of observational research: 1) to study validity; 2) to estimate the required sample size; and 3) to study reliability. Currently available software applications (such as GT, EduG or, recently, SAGT) make it easier to conduct this kind of analysis and they provide researchers with procedures for ensuring that the decisions they need to make during the research process are justified prior to being implemented; for instance, calculating the required sample size so as to ensure the accurate generalization of results, or constructing a valid reliable observational instrument that can meet the arduous task of coding and recording behaviour in natural contexts

A Teoria da Generalização (TG) é uma teoria de erros multifacetada que assume que qualquer situação de medida possui infinitas fontes de variação. Neste sentido, esta teoria pode ser aplicada no âmbito da observação com a intenção de conhecer a influência destas fontes de erro sobre a medida. De todas estas possibilidades, neste trabalho apresentam-se, a título de exemplo, três aplicações da TG nas primeiras fases de uma investigação no âmbito observacional: 1) para o estudo da validade, 2) para a estimativa da amostra; e, 3) para o estudo da fidelidade. Actualmente existem aplicações informáticas (GT, EduG ou, recentemente, SAGT) que facilitam a implementação deste tipo de análise que permitem ao investigador contar com recursos procedimentais para que a decisões que tem que tomar no processo de investigação possam ser justificadas antes de serem implementadas como a amostra necessária para poder generalizar com precisão ou dispor de uma ferramenta de observação válida e fiável para levar a cabo o processo de codificação e registo dos comportamentos, nos contextos naturais onde decorrem

Análisis del espacio de interacción en fútbol / Analyzing the space for interaction in soccer

El objetivo del trabajo es conocer cuál es la dinámica en el uso del espacio de interacción que los equipos desarrollan en un partido de competición. Se estudiaron seis partidos de la Liga española, registrándose la ubicación espacial de jugadores y el balón en cada una de las posesiones individuales de balón (N = 6793) que dispusieron los jugadores durante la competición. Los registros se codificaron a partir de la salida de datos que aporta la tecnología video tracking del sistema AMISCO Pro® que permitió registrar variables como: amplitud (AMP), profundidad (PRO) y superficie (SUP) del espacio de juego efectivo del equipo, la altura de la defensa (AD) en relación a la portería que defiende, la distancia entre la línea retrasada de un equipo respecto a la adversaria (DD) cuando los equipos tuvieron o no posesión del balón, y las distancias del balón respecto a la banda derecha (BD) e izquierda (BI) para el equipo en posesión del balón. Las variables espaciales se contextualizaron en relación a la ubicación del balón en el eje longitudinal del espacio a partir de la subdivisión del terreno de juego en cinco zonas transversales. Los resultados fueron los siguientes: valores superiores estadísticamente significativos con relación a las variables espaciales AMP, PRO y SUP cuando el equipo tuvo posesión del balón respecto a cuando no la tuvo, no así para las variables BD y BI, así como para AD y DD con relación a las 5 zonas transversales del terreno de juego con y sin posesión del balón. Las conclusiones de este trabajo permiten aumentar el conocimiento referente a la interacción de los equipos que disputan un partido, y en consecuencia, gestionar la importancia de los requerimientos estratégicos espaciales con relación a la dinámica del juego y al rendimiento (AU)

The aim of the study was to determine ways in which soccer players make spatial use of the pitch during a competition match. Six matches from the Spanish league were studied, recording the spatial location of the players and ball in each individual instance of ball possession (N = 6793) during competitive play. Coding was performed using data obtained from the AMISCO Pro® video tracking system, which enabled the following variables to be recorded: the width (WID), depth (DEP) and surface area (SFA) of a team’s effective playing area; the position of the defensive line (PD) in relation to the goal being defended; the distance between a team’s defensive line and the opposing team (DD), both when the team was in possession of the ball and when it was not; and, for the team with the ball, the distance between the ball and the right touchline (BR) and between the ball and the left touchline (BL). The spatial variables were contextualized, considering the longitudinal location of the ball by dividing the pitch into five transverse zones. The results showed that the values of WID, DEP and SFA were significantly higher when the team was in possession of the ball, as opposed to when it was not. However, this was not the case for the BR and BL variables. Ball possession was, however, associated with significant differences in the case of the PD and DD variables with respect to the five transverse pitch zones. The results of this study shed further light on interaction between soccer teams, and they should help coaches to manage the strategic use of space so as to improve performance (AU)

La Teoría de la Generalizabilidad en las primeras fases del m¨¦todo observacional aplicado en el ámbito de la iniciación deportiva: calidad del dato y estimación de la muestra / Generalizability theory in the early stages of the observational method applied in the field of sports initiation: data quality and sample size estimation

Este trabajo aborda, desde la metodología observacional, el estudio de las primeras etapas del proceso de iniciación deportiva, en cuanto a la fiabilidad y estimación de la muestra, a partir del uso de la Teoría de la Generalizabilidad. El propósito de este estudio fue 1) analizar la calidad del dato de la herramienta de observación configurada ad hoc aplicada a la pelota vasca; 2) conocer la precisión de generalización a partir de una hipotética codificación y registro de diferente número de partidos. Para ello se calcularon las Kappas de Fleiss y Cohen, y se implementaron análisis de la varianza y de generalizabilidad. Los resultados muestran que la herramienta observacional permitió obtener un registro fiable una vez realizado el proceso formativo de los observadores (Kappas por encima de .80 y variabilidad de los observadores próxima a 0) y, por otro, estimar el nivel de precisión en la generalización (coeficiente de generalizabilidad, ξρ2 (Δ)) a partir de la codificación de 4 (ξρ2 (Δ) = .87), 6 (ξρ2 (Δ) = .91), 8 (ξρ2 (Δ) = .93), 10 (ξρ2 (Δ) = .95) o 15 (ξρ2 (Δ) = .96) partidos. Los resultados del estudio permiten concluir que se dispone de una herramienta para la evaluación de la acción de juego aplicable en las etapas formativas de pelota vasca y el número de partidos necesarios para generalizar con un grado de precisión particular (AU)

This paper addresses, from the observational methodology, the study of early stages of sports initiation, in terms of reliability and estimation of the sample, from the use of the Generalizability Theory. The purpose of this study was: 1) to analyse data quality of the ad hoc observational tool applied to Basque pelota, 2) to learn about the accuracy of generalizing from a hypothetical coding and recording of different numbers of games. Fleiss and Cohen´s Kappa coefficients were calculated, and an analysis of variance and generalizability were implemented. The results show that the observational tool allowed us to obtain a reliable record once the observers training process had been performed (Kappas above .80 and variability of the observers close to 0) and, secondly, to estimate the level of accuracy generalization (generalizability coefficient, ξρ2 (Δ) from the coding of 4 (ξρ2 (Δ) = .87), 6 ξρ2 (Δ) = .91), 8 ξρ2 (Δ) = . 93), 10 ξρ2 (Δ) = .95) or 15 (ξρ2 (Δ = .96) matches. Study results support the conclusion that we have a tool for evaluating the game that is applicable in the formative stages of Basque pelota, and the number of games necessary to generalize with a particular degree of accuracy (AU)

Estudio de la percepción subjetiva del esfuerzo en tareas de entrenamiento en fútbol a través de la teoría de la generalizabilidad / Study of perceived exertion in soccer training tasks with the generalizability theory

El propósito de este trabajo fue conocer la percepción subjetiva del esfuerzo en futbolistas (a través de la escala de 10 puntos) durante la realización de juegos reducidos dentro del proceso de entrenamiento. 14 jugadores amateurs realizaron 27 situaciones de juego reducido en nueve sesiones de entrenamiento alterando el orden, la orientación del espacio y el número de jugadores por equipo de las tareas. Dentro del Modelo General Lineal (GLM), con estas tres facetas, se realizó un análisis de la varianza y se estimó la precisión de generalización. Además se realizó el análisis de ANOVA para conocer el grado de significación de las diferencias entre variables. Los resultados indican que tanto la modificación en la orientación del espacio como en el número de jugadores por equipo influyen en la percepción de la intensidad de la tarea por parte de los jugadores, aumentando la percepción del esfuerzo cuando el espacio no está orientado y se reduce el número de jugadores. La faceta orden no aportó variabilidad al modelo. Se puede concluir que la modificación de las variables de orientación del espacio y número de jugadores por equipo en las tareas permite a los entrenadores optimizar el proceso de entrenamiento en fútbol (AU)

The purpose of this study was to ascertain the perceived exertion by soccer players (on a 10-point scale) during brief side-games during the training process. A total of 14 amateurs took part in 27 brief side-games over nine training sessions that altered the order, spatial orientation and number of players per team. The variance was analysed through the General Linear Model (GLM) with these three facets and the accuracy of generalization was estimated. Furthermore, an ANOVA analysis was performed to determine the degree of significance of the differences between variables. The results indicate that both the change in spatial orientation and number of players per team affect the perception of the task’s intensity, improving the players’ perception when the space is not oriented and the number of players is reduced, while the order facet did not provide the model with any variability. We conclude that the inclusion and modification of the orientation and number of players per team variables allow coaches to optimize the training process in soccer (AU)

Diseños Observacionales: Ajuste y aplicación en psicología del deporte / Observational designs: their suitability and application in sports psychology

En este trabajo se realiza una revisión del concepto de diseño observacional y su aplicación al ámbito de la Psicología del Deporte. Los diseños observacionales, una vez definidos los objetivos, guiarán posteriormente todo el proceso a seguir, incidiendo en la elaboración de instrumentos de observación, en el registro y su métrica, en el muestreo observacional, en el control de calidad del dato y, de forma muy acusada, en la elección de las técnicas analíticas más adecuadas en cada caso, sin olvidar igualmente su repercusión en la interpretación de los resultados (AU)

This study reviews the concept of observational design and its applications in the field of sports psychology. Once the objectives of an observational design have been defined they will guide the subsequent research process, influencing the construction of observation instruments, the recording procedure and its metric, the observational sampling, the monitoring of data quality, and, above all, the choice of the most suitable analytic techniques in each case. Obviously, they also have repercussions in terms of the interpretation of results (AU)

Esse trabalho realiza uma revisão do conceito do modelo observacional e sua aplicação no âmbito da Psicologia do Esporte. Os modelos observacionais uma vez definidos os objetivos guiarão posteriormente todo (..) (AU)

Codificación, registro y análisis de la acción de éxito en fútbol / Encoding, recording and analysis of the action of success in soccer

Este estudio presenta la creación de un instrumento de observación para la codificación, el registro y el análisis de acciones de éxito en fútbol. A través del instrumento que proponemos, un sistema de categoría construido ad hoc, hemos realizado registros semiautomáticos con el software Match Vision Studio (Castellano, Perea y Alday, 2006) usando una muestra de 688 goles marcados por el FC Barcelona de la Liga Nacional de Fútbol Profesional (LFP). Posteriormente, se han realizado distintos análisis de datos ente los que cabe destacar las diferencias significativas que existen entre las categorías que subyacen al criterio de Zona de Última Acción (ZUA), así como entre los criterios Goles a Favor (GF) y Zona de Remate (ZR) además de la interacción significativa entre los criterios ZUA y ZR (AU)

This paper presents the creation of an observation tool for encoding, recording and analysis of successful actions in soccer. Through the instrument we propose a system of ad hoc constructed category, we performed semi-registers with the software Match Vision Studio (Castellano, Perea and Alday, 2006) using a sample of 688 goals scored by FC Barcelona's National League Fútbol Profesional (LFP). Subsequently, there have been different data analysis entity most notably the significant differences between the categories underlying criterion Last Action Zone (Zuá) and the criteria Goals Scored (GF) and Area Auction (ZR) in addition to the significant interaction between criteria and ZR Zuá (AU)