Research Methods Y2 - Reliability Flashcards
What is the definition of reliability in psychology
Reliability refers to how consistent the findings from an investigation or measuring device are. A measuring device is said to be reliable if it produces consistent results every time it is used.
How is test-retest reliability assessed, and what does it show?
Test-retest reliability is a method of assessing the reliability of a questionnaire or psychological test by assessing the same person on two separate occasions. This shows to what extent the test (or other measure) produces the same answers (i.e., is consistent or reliable).
What does inter-observer reliability measure, and how is it calculated?
Inter-observer reliability measures the extent to which there is agreement between two or more observers involved in observations of a behavior. This is measured by correlating the observations of two or more observers. A general rule is that if (total number of agreements) ÷ (total number of observations) > +.80, the data have high inter-observer reliability.
Why is reliability important in psychological tests, observations, and questionnaires?
Reliability ensures that measurements of behavior are the same (or at least similar) every single time they are used. This is critical as psychologists do not measure concrete things (e.g., length or height) but abstract concepts such as attitudes, aggression, memory, and IQ.
What is test-retest reliability, and how can it be improved?
Test-retest reliability is assessed by checking if the results of a test or questionnaire are consistent over time. Improvement involves ensuring sufficient time between tests so participants cannot recall their answers but not so much time that attitudes, opinions, or abilities may have changed. A test must show a significant (and positive) correlation of over +.80 for it to be considered reliable.`
What does the phrase “beauty is in the eye of the beholder” suggest in terms of inter-observer reliability?
The phrase suggests that everyone has their own way of seeing the world. This issue is relevant to observational research as the subjective interpretation of events may differ widely from someone else’s, introducing subjectivity, bias, and unreliability into the research process.
How is inter-observer reliability established in research?
Inter-observer reliability is established by having two or more researchers independently observe and record data. Researchers must compare the data and check if they correlate to a high degree (generally above +.80). This reduces subjectivity and bias.
What methods are used to improve the reliability of questionnaires?
Reliability of questionnaires can be improved by using the test-retest method and ensuring a correlation above +.80. Ambiguous questions should be rewritten to be less open to interpretation, and questions with closed, fixed-choice alternatives should be used.
How can reliability in interviews be ensured?
For interviews, reliability can be ensured by using the same interviewer each time. Structured interviews with fixed questions are more reliable as they limit variability compared to unstructured or free-flowing interviews.
Why are lab experiments described as being ‘reliable’?
Lab experiments are reliable because researchers can exert strict control over variables and standardize the procedure, ensuring that participants receive the same conditions. This consistency allows for replication and demonstrates the reliability of findings.
What factors can affect the reliability of a lab experiment?
Factors affecting reliability include the precision of replication of a particular method and differences in participants’ states when tested under slightly different conditions.
How can the reliability of observations be improved?
Observational reliability can be improved by ensuring behavioral categories are properly operationalized, measurable, and do not overlap. Categories should be comprehensive, covering all behaviors, and clearly outlined in a checklist.
