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1.2 External validity as criteria of scientific knowledge
Introduction
The concept of validity is crucial to research since it improves the reliability of a
research work's assessment and evaluation. It is used efficiently since a
measurement could be accurate but invalid, but if it is inaccurate, it cannot be
accurate and valid. Those who are creating measures prioritise validity, and those
who want accurate results from assessments prioritise the use of scientific
measurement. This essay will discuss external validity as criteria of scientific
knowledge.
Definition of Key Concepts
Validity: A methodological need for research activities like observation, the use of
measuring devices and other procedures, as well as research findings such the
analysis and interpretation of data acquired, conclusions from analyses.
External Validity: Whether or if the casual relationship found in the study may be
generalised is determined by external validity.
Validity
Any reliable and accurate assessment must have validity as its foundation. The
degree to which theoretical justifications and empirical data support the sufficiency
and appropriateness of interpretations and actions based on test results is always
referred to as validity. Because it has to do with drawing conclusions about test
results, validity is a developing and complex concept. By concentrating on the results
of the conclusions drawn, it is implied that they should be competent and
appropriate. The inferences are hypotheses and validating them amounts to
assessing the hypotheses. Therefore, validity is seen as evaluations of the
inferences drawn from test findings or assessment outcomes, such as if the
conclusions are correctly interpreted and actions are done in response to them.
These evaluations must be accurate and representative of the reality because it
pertains to conclusions about test results, validity is a complex and dynamic term.
The focus on the conclusions' consequences indicates that they should be
appropriate and sufficient.
External Validity
External validity is the ability to apply a study's results and conclusions to a larger
population of comparable occurrences to determine if a study reflects what would
happen in the real world. An example would be observing how many people do not
stop at stop signs while driving. Other forms of external validity would be case
studies and archival data. External validity is not a necessity for all study such as
qualitative research or scientific work of contextual significance need not be
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