For example, a political science test with exam items composed using complex wording or phrasing could unintentionally shift to an assessment of reading comprehension. If test designers or instructors don’t consider all aspects of assessment creation - beyond the content - the validity of their exams may be compromised. The validity of an assessment refers to how accurately or effectively it measures what it was designed to measure, notes the University of Northern Iowa Office of Academic Assessment. Using these three types of reliability measures can help teachers and administrators ensure that their assessments are as consistent and accurate as possible. Example: A student who is asked multiple questions that measure the same thing should give the same answer to each question.Internal Consistency Reliability measures “how the actual content of an assessment works together to evaluate understanding of a concept.”.

Example: A student who takes two different versions of the same test should produce similar results each time.

Alternate Form Reliability measures “how test scores compare across two similar assessments given in a short time frame.”.

Example: A student who takes the same test twice, but at different times, should have similar results each time.

Test-Retest Reliability measures “the replicability of results.”.

Here are three types of reliability, according to The Graide Network, that can help determine if the results of an assessment are valid:

Deviations from data patterns and anomalous results or responses could be a sign that specific items on the exam are misleading or unreliable. What Makes a Reliable Assessment?įor an exam or an assessment to be considered reliable, it must exhibit consistent results. It is essential that exam designers use every available resource - specifically data analysis and psychometrics - to ensure the validity of their assessment outcomes. Poorly written assessments can even be detrimental to the overall success of a program.

Invalid or unreliable methods of assessment can reduce the chances of reaching predetermined academic or curricular goals. How to Measure Test Validity and Reliability

Validity and reliability of data