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Chapter 13: Problem 1

What is meant when we ask about the reliability or validity of a test?

Short Answer

Expert verified
Reliability in a test refers to its consistency over time and conditions. In contrast, validity refers to the test's efficacy at accurately measuring what it is intended to measure.

Step by step solution

01

Understanding Reliability

Reliability in a test refers to its consistency and stability. If a test yields consistent results over time or across different situations, it is deemed to be reliable. Reliability of a test is important because it assures us that repeating the test would most likely give the same results.
02

Understanding Validity

Validity speaks to the test's ability to measure what it is intended to measure. If a test indeed measures what it's supposed to, it is said to be valid. It is critical for a test to be valid, so that conclusions and decisions made based on test results are accurate and suitable.
03

Examples and Application

In education, for example, a math test is reliable if it produces the same grade when a student retakes it under the same conditions, and it is valid if it accurately evaluates a student's competence in math, rather than some unrelated skill or knowledge.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

Develop a list of criteria that you think are essential in determining intelligence. Compare your list with your classmates' lists and together create a class list.

Which has the greatest effect on intelligence-nature or nurture? Explain

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What are the two-factor and triarchic theories of intelligence?

Choose two personality traits. Develop several test questions that you think would assess these traits. Discuss and evaluate your questions with your classmates.
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