PSResearch Design & Evaluation 545

Question 1

Construct

Answer 1

• A characteristic that varies between individuals but is not directly observable
• Constructs are used to explain phenomena in human behavior
• Because constructs do not have a concrete existence in the physical world, they cannot be objectively defined and measured

Ex:

Question 2

Correlation vs Causation

Answer 2

• Correlation describes the relationship (either positive or negative) between variable
• Causation refers to when changes in one variable bring about changes in the other variable(s) (i.e. cause and effect)
• A correlation is necessary to establish a causal relationship, but a correlation between variable DOES NOT assume that their is causation between the variables
• Only experimental studies can establish causal relationships

Ex:

Question 3

Criterion-referenced Scoring/Tests

Answer 3

• Tests in which the test-taker is asked to demonstrate a specific skill or ability
• Performance is measured against a fixed set of predetermined criteria or standards
• The results are not compared to norms

Ex: John’s parents enter counseling concerned about his future. To move on to the fourth grade, John had to complete a 3rd grade math test to demonstrate his 3rd grade skills. John did not meet the predetermined standards to pass 3rd grade math. He is held back.

Question 4

Criterion-related validity

Answer 4

• A type of validity in which a test or measure is assessed according to the extent to which it corresponds with a particular criterion or standard
• There are two types of criterion-related validity:
• concurrent (how well the test correlated currently with another measure/criterion
• predictive ( how well the test predicts future performance in relation to a criterion or measure

Ex: