Question

Which of the following describes the term validity?

A. It refers to the consistency and accuracy with which a test measures something in the same way over time.
B. It ensures that there is a blueprint that describes all aspects of instruction
C. It indicates whether we are measuring what we intend to measure
D. It is established through the inclusion of cognitive and affective objectives.

Answer 1

Validity refers to accurate measurement, while reliability refers to consistent measurement. Researchers aim for both validity and reliability in their instruments.

Step-by-step explanation:

Validity refers to the extent to which a given instrument or tool accurately measures what it's supposed to measure. For example, in psychological research, validity can be expressed through ecological validity (how research results generalize to real-world applications), construct validity (how well a variable captures or measures what it is intended to measure), and face validity (how valid a variable seems on the surface).

Reliability, on the other hand, refers to the consistency and reproducibility of data collection. It means that any instruments or tools used to collect data do so in consistent and reliable ways.

While any valid measure is by necessity reliable, the reverse is not necessarily true. Researchers strive to use instruments that are both highly reliable and valid.