Research and Program Evaluation
Validity generalization is a branch of meta-analysis that refers to the presentation of the validities of various selection devices, such as aptitude tests and abilities, that are generalized across diverse situations (Wigdor 1989). This implies that it is unnecessary to conduct a new validity study in every setting. Validity generalization applies in research when accurately estimating the mean and variance of true validities. It is also an essential approach to summarizing cumulative research. In addition, the results of validity generalization in research can be used to draw scientific conclusions between variables. Furthermore, the evidence of criterion-related validity attained from previous studies can be used to support the use of a test in a new situation during research (Schmidt& Hunter1977).
Open-ended Questions, Partially Open-ended and Closed-ended questions
These questions are used in research questionnaires to accurately measure the opinions, observations and behaviour of respondents (Gilner, Morgan & Leech 2009). Open-ended questions are objective and draw a full or meaningful answer based on the respondent’s own knowledge, experience or feelings (Worley 2015). They allow for different interpretations and a variety of responses. Words used include how or why and phrases like ‘tell me about…’ or ‘what is your opinion on…’ Partially open-ended questions are similar to open-ended questions but have pre-categorized answers. They have multiple choices, including an alternative titled ‘other,’ which allows respondents to give their answers. Closed-ended questions, on the other hand, are subjective, with a list of answers from which respondents must select. They include multiple choice questions, yes or no questions and true or false questions (Sudman & Bradburn1983).
Conclusion
Validity generalization implies that the validity of selection devices generalizes from a wide range of settings. It is a significant aspect of drawing scientific conclusions in research. Questionnaires used in research may use open-ended questions, partially open-ended questions, and closed-ended questions.
References
Gilner, J, Morgan G., Leech, N. (2009) Research methods: an integrated approach to design and analysis (2nd Edition), Routledge Taylor & Francis Group
Schmidt, F. L., & Hunter, J. E. (1977). Development of a general solution to the problem of validity generalization. Journal of Applied Psychology, 62(5), 529.
Sudman, S., & Bradburn, N. M. (1983). Asking questions: a practical guide to questionnaire design.
Wigdor, A. K. (1989). Fairness in employment testing: Validity generalization, minority issues, and the General Aptitude Test Battery. National Academies.
Worley, P. (2015). Open thinking, closed questioning: Two kinds of open and closed question. Journal of Philosophy in Schools, 2(2).
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