RESEARCH METHODS (Part3/5) (Reliability and Validity, Ethics, Observations)

DP1(4) - RELIABILITY AND VALIDITY.

Reliability of an experiment is determined through replication.

Inter-observer reliability: is the extent to which there is agreement between observers, observing the behaviours. (Similar to inter-rater reliability but non-specific to the research method)

External reliability: obtaining the same results each time. Control using test-retest method.

Internal relaibility: consistency within the test. Assoicated with attitude scales or psychometric measures; if the tool is consistent. Using split half methods.

Internal validity: Does the study measure what it claims to measure; can be hindered by CV's if EV's uncontrolled. Can be established by using repeated measures desgin, or controlling situational and investigator variables.

External validity: The extent to which findings can be generalised. Includes population, temporal and ecological validity, can be established by sampling and triangulation.

Measuring validity.

Face V - does the test look like its testing what it claims?

Concurrent V - comparing results obtained by a new test with an older relaible one.

Predictive V - ability to predict performance on future test E.g IQ tests predicting grade.

DPI(5) - ETHICS 

Moral principles that guide…