Using the DOF, an observer writes a description of a child’s behaviour as it occurs over a 10-minute interval in classrooms or other group settings. The observer scores on-task behaviour at 1-minute intervals and 96 problem items at the end of the 10 minutes. Teacher aides and other para-professionals can easily be trained to use the DOF.

• Observers rate on-task behaviour for 10 one-minute intervals and rate the child on 88 problem itesm for each 10-minute observation
• Norms are based on ethnically diverse samples of 661 children for classroom observations and 2247 children for recess observations, with separate norms for boys and girls
• Classroom Scales: Sluggish Cognitive Temp; Immature/Withdrawn; Attention Problems; Intrusive; Oppositional; DSM-oriented Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Problems with Inattention and Hyperactivity-Impulsivity subscales; Total Problems; and On-Task
• Recess Scales: Aggressive Behaviour and Total Problems
• ADM module aggregates observers' ratings over two to six 10-minute observations for the identified child. Module creates "local norms" from observations of control children in the same setting.