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Questions and Answers
What factor is assumed to introduce randomness in measurements, affecting reliability?
How is reliability defined in relation to measurement outcomes?
What must remain stable for a measurement procedure to be considered reliable?
What is likely if an individual is measured for intelligence while tired compared to when they are rested?
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If measurements produce a significant variance in IQ scores over multiple tests, how can the reliability be affected?
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What is the relationship between the error component and the reliability of measurements?
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Which of the following statements best describes the impact of repeated measurements on a reliable measurement procedure?
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What sort of scores should be expected when measuring intelligence with a reliable procedure?
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How can a person's emotional state affect their IQ score?
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What might cause variation in reaction times during a cognitive skill test?
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Why are single measurements of reaction time often considered unreliable?
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What is one common method researchers use to enhance the reliability of reaction time measurements?
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Which type of error is most likely to stem from the person conducting a measurement?
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What challenges do researchers face when attempting to ensure identical conditions for measurements?
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What is one reason why an individual's score can vary dramatically from one trial to another in cognitive tests?
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How do researchers often refer to measurements that change significantly from trial to trial?
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Study Notes
Reliability of Measurement
- Reliability refers to the consistency of measurement results when repeatedly used on the same individual under the same conditions.
- Example: If an IQ test produces nearly identical scores when taken by the same person multiple times, it is considered reliable.
- Assumption: The variable being measured is stable or constant.
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Error component: Measurement procedures introduce error which can fluctuate from measurement to measurement, affecting the final score.
- Example: A person's IQ score can be influenced by factors like mood, fatigue, and luck, contributing to measurement error.
- Reliable Measurements: Measurements are considered reliable when the error component is relatively small, resulting in consistent scores despite minor variations.
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Unreliable Measurements: Measurements are considered unreliable when the error component is large, leading to significant differences between measurements, making individual scores untrustworthy.
- Example: Reaction time can vary greatly due to distractions, making a single measurement unreliable.
- Addressing Unreliability: Researchers often use multiple measurements and average them to produce a more stable and reliable indicator of performance.
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Sources of Error:
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Observer Error: Human error introduced by the individual making the measurements, particularly when subjective judgment is involved.
- Example: Inconsistencies in judging balls and strikes or grading essays can be attributed to observer error.
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Environmental Changes: Small changes in the environment during repeated measurements can affect the results even when trying to maintain consistent conditions.
- Example: Noise levels or temperature fluctuations can affect performance on tasks like reaction time tests.
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Observer Error: Human error introduced by the individual making the measurements, particularly when subjective judgment is involved.
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Description
This quiz explores the concept of reliability in measurement, focusing on its definition, examples, and the influence of error components. Understand how consistent scores reflect reliable measurements and the factors that can lead to measurement error, affecting results. Test your knowledge on maintaining consistency in measurements.