In studies of classroom behavior modification, the experimenter or educator attempts to make valid judgments about desirable behavioral outcomes. Instruments of assessment to be used with behavior modification treatments must be sensitive to the behavioral goals of principals, teachers, and public school officials. Moreover the treatments used in behavior modification must incorporate teacher behavior. Specific criteria necessary for valid and reliable observing and recording techniques are also prerequisites to instrument development. The Durham Education Improvement Program has developed two instruments, Coping Analysis Schedule for Educational Settings (CASES) and Spaulding Teacher Activity Rating Schedule (STARS), to permit the study of the socialization process in ongoing school settings and treatment of behavior disorders by social agents. Two procedures requiring trained observers using technical aids (signal generators, and an event recorder with attached micro-switch keyboard) have been used; a third, employing wireless transmitting microphones in conjunction with the event recorder, is proposed. Short forms of CASES and STARS are appended along with recording sheets used to gather data in classrooms. Examples of criteria for rating observation techniques are included. (ES)