validity
Definition
In the context of sociological research, validity refers to the extent to which a research instrument measures what it claims to measure. It is crucial for ensuring that the conclusions drawn from research accurately reflect real-world phenomena.
Analogy
Validity in research is like hitting the bullseye in archery; just as hitting the bullseye confirms the archer's aim is accurate, high validity ensures that a study accurately captures the concept it intends to investigate.
Related terms
Reliability: The consistency of a research method or measurement tool over time.
Operationalization: The process of strictly defining variables into measurable factors.
Measurement error: The difference between the actual value and the measured value due to inaccuracies or inconsistencies in data collection
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