Reliability and Validity

To enhance accuracy in the measurement of data, researchers must adopt the principles of reliability and validity.

Reliability is the consistency of measurement. The research is reliable if it were to be repeated under similar conditions and with the same subjects, the researcher would obtain similar results. Eg: A test could be considered reliable if a person's takes the same test twice and achieves the same score, that is, its "repeatability" is high. The VIA test we do at school gives us similar results each time and is therefore reliable.

Validity refers to accuracy of measurement. The research is valid if it accurately reflects what it was intended to measure. Eg: a research study that requires 15 year olds to complete a questionnaire based on what they have eaten in the past 3 days may be valid, however carrying out the same questionnaire with 4 year old's would not be valid as most four year old's could not accurately recall what they have eaten, nor complete a written response. For our IRP, interviewing year 7 -10 students would make our results invalid

If researchers conduct background research, use a variety of research methods, choose an appropriate sample group, select a large sample size, and use a combination of sampling methods, then the reliability and validity of research will increase as there is less bias and fewer personal judgments are made.

Watch the edrolo explanations of reliability and validity using the bullseye analogy  

Activity 1:

Explain why or why not the following scenarios are reliable and/or valid.

l. You are researching individuals' thoughts and feelings about Australian Youth. You gather data by distributing  20 questionnaires to your friends in Year 11.

2.Your topic is "Do individuals really believe in God?" You distribute 60 questionnaires to a variety of students and interview 10 adults at the local Catholic school.

3  Your research aims to find out what specific needs are a priority to Australian youth during Year 12. You distribute 200 random surveys by email with the intent of using the first 100 returned. You then interview the school counsellor, the school captain and a few parents.

4.Your research is investigating the social dynamics within families. You interview your neighbours and the school Principal.

IRP HOMEWORK due Tuesday  (Use this assessment task sheet for information)

1, Download the IRP template and make your own copy 

2. Begin the editing process and complete:

• the title page

• the introduction (250 words)

• the literature review for secondary research methodology (750 words)

• DESIGN 10 QUESTIONS TO BE USED IN AN INTERVIEW THAT ADDRESSES THE FOCUS QUESTION