Validitätsformen

Validitätsformen, also known as forms of validity, refers to the different ways in which a measurement tool or test can be considered accurate. In essence, it assesses whether a test truly measures what it is intended to measure. There are several recognized forms of validity, each focusing on a distinct aspect of accuracy.

Content validity is concerned with whether the content of a test adequately represents the construct or domain it aims to measure. For instance, a math test should include questions that cover the entire range of mathematical concepts taught in a course.

Criterion-related validity examines how well a test's results correlate with an external criterion. This can be further divided into concurrent validity, which assesses the relationship between test scores and a criterion measured at the same time, and predictive validity, which evaluates how well test scores predict future performance on a criterion. An example of predictive validity would be using entrance exam scores to predict a student's future academic success.

Construct validity is perhaps the most complex form. It assesses whether a test accurately measures the theoretical construct it is designed to assess. This involves determining if the test aligns with existing theories about the construct and if it differentiates between groups that are theoretically expected to differ. For example, a test designed to measure anxiety should show higher scores in individuals who exhibit anxious behaviors compared to those who do not.

Finally, face validity, while the weakest form, refers to whether a test appears to measure what it is supposed to measure from the perspective of the test-taker or a layperson. While subjective, it can influence user engagement and acceptance of the test. Each of these validity forms contributes to a comprehensive understanding of a measurement tool's trustworthiness.