Abstract
In the previous chapter we examined the validity question: “Does the instrument measure what it is supposed to measure?” We now turn to the issue of reliability, which is concerned with the question: “Does the instrument provide us with an accurate assessment of the affective characteristics?” By “accurate assessment,” we mean scores that are internally consistent upon one administration of the instrument, as well as stable over time, given two administrations (see Stanley, 1971). In this chapter we will explore the measurement theory underlying reliability and the evidence needed to support its internal consistency and stability. Following this, we will summarize the factors affecting the level of reliability and discuss the relationship between reliability and validity. The chapter will conclude with a presentation of an analysis of SPSS computer output pertaining to the reliability of the Gable-Roberts Attitude Toward Teacher Scale. All readers should review Kuder’s (1991) article entitled “Comments Concerning the appropriate Use of Formulas for Estimating the Internal Consistency Reliability of Tests.”
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© 1993 Springer Science+Business Media New York
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Gable, R.K., Wolf, M.B. (1993). The Reliability of Affective Instruments. In: Instrument Development in the Affective Domain. Evaluation in Education and Human Services, vol 36. Springer, Dordrecht. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-011-1400-4_5
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-011-1400-4_5
Publisher Name: Springer, Dordrecht
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