reliability and validity Flashcards
What is reliability in research?
Reliability refers to the consistency and stability of a measurement or procedure in research. A reliable study will yield consistent results over time and in different situations.
How can reliability be assessed in research?
Reliability can be assessed using methods such as test-retest and inter-observer reliability. Test-retest involves measuring the same individuals at different times, while inter-observer reliability measures consistency between different observers.
What is test-retest reliability?
Test-retest reliability involves assessing the stability of results over time. Participants are tested on the same task at two different points, and the consistency of results is evaluated.
What is inter-observer reliability?
Inter-observer reliability refers to the degree to which different observers or raters give consistent ratings or judgments in an observational study.
What are ways to improve reliability in research?
Reliability can be improved by standardizing procedures, using clear and detailed operational definitions, training observers, and conducting pilot studies to identify issues before data collection.
How is validity defined in research?
Validity refers to the extent to which a research study measures what it claims to measure. A valid study ensures that the results accurately reflect the intended variables or phenomena.
What is face validity?
Face validity is a type of validity that refers to how suitable or appropriate a measure appears at first glance. It is often subjective and based on judgment rather than empirical data.
What is concurrent validity?
Concurrent validity is a form of validity that assesses how well a new measure correlates with an established measure of the same concept, taken at the same time.
What is ecological validity?
Ecological validity refers to the extent to which research findings can be generalized to real-world settings. High ecological validity means the study’s conditions closely mimic real-life conditions.
What is temporal validity?
Temporal validity refers to the extent to which research findings can be generalized over time. If a study’s results hold true over different periods, it has high temporal validity.
How is validity assessed in research?
Validity can be assessed by comparing research findings with external benchmarks (e.g., established measures), checking for consistency across different methods, and evaluating the fit between research design and real-world application.
How can validity be improved in research?
Validity can be improved by using a representative sample, conducting field research, using multiple methods of data collection, and ensuring measures are carefully designed to reflect the concepts being studied.
How do reliability and validity differ?
Reliability refers to consistency in measurements, while validity refers to accuracy in measuring what the research intends to measure. A study can be reliable but not valid if it consistently measures the wrong thing.
How can you assess the reliability of questionnaires?
Questionnaire reliability can be assessed using test-retest or inter-observer reliability, ensuring that results are stable over time and consistent across different raters.
How can you assess the reliability of interviews?
Interviews can be assessed for reliability by ensuring consistency in interviewer behavior, using standardized interview protocols, and checking inter-observer reliability if multiple interviewers are involved.
How can you improve the reliability of experimental designs?
To improve reliability in experimental designs, use consistent procedures, ensure clear operational definitions, and standardize conditions for all participants. Additionally, conducting repeat studies can strengthen reliability.
How does the type of research method affect reliability?
Different research methods have varying levels of reliability. For example, laboratory experiments often have high reliability due to controlled conditions, while naturalistic observations may be less reliable due to external variables.
