Validity and Reliability

Question 1

Reliability

Answer 1

The consistency of an outcome or result of an investigation

Question 2

Validity

Answer 2

Whether the test measures what was intended

Question 3

Internal validity

Answer 3

Whether measures used in a test genuinely test what they were designed to test

Question 4

External validity

Answer 4

Whether the findings are generalisable for the target population

Question 5

Reliability and Validity in sampling methods

Answer 5

If a sampling method leads to a biased sample, the outcome may not be relied upon as it could differ if the study was replicated. If a sample error occurs, then the findings of the research are untrue of the target population. This affects the external validity of the results

Question 6

Reliability and Validity in experimental design

Answer 6

In an independent measures design, there is variability between groups because of participant variables This can lead to unreliable findings. Also the way in which participants ae allocated to the conditions can affect the validity. Similarly, demand characteristics are more likely in repeated measures design which can invalidate the results