Improving

Question 1

Define reliability

Answer 1

The consistency of the research study if repeated under similar conditions - do you receive the same result.

Question 2

How would you improve reliability?

Answer 2

Take measurements more carefully > remove human error.
Increase sample size/ area covered (can spot anomalies).
Use a sampling method (don’t just select anomalies/not opportunistic).
Repeat at different times of day/year/weather conditions > remove anomalies/confounding variables > average closer to true value.
Ensure questions/categories clear and understood - e.g. define geographical terms. .

Question 3

Define Validity

Answer 3

Is your research measuring what you set out to measure

Question 4

How would you improve validity?

Answer 4

Control for confounding variables.

Question 5

Define generalisability

Answer 5

The extent to which you can apply your research findings to your target population - does the sample represent the overall population.

Question 6

How would you improve generalisability?

Answer 6

Make your sample more similar to the overall population. Use a sampling method - Stratify your sample.
Increase the sample size - ensure don’t just select anomalies

Question 7

Define accuracy

Answer 7

How precise or exact your measurements were.

Question 8

How would you improve accuracy?

Answer 8

Improve method - e.g. use a stopwatch to ensure exactly five minutes used for each count.
Use more precise equipment such as laser distance meters.
Make sure questions clear and understood.

Question 9

Define confounding variable

Answer 9

A third thing that seems to affect your results not just what you are measuring for.

Question 10

Define bias

Answer 10

Anything that makes results inaccurate, not valid or not reliable (wrong).