Reliability and validity are critical concepts used in evaluation of research quality. these concepts indicate or illustrate how well a method, technique or test measures a variable. Reliability entails consistency on the measure. Reliability tells about the degree to which results can be reproduced when research is repeated under similar conditions by checking the consistency of the outcomes across time, different observers and parts of the test itself. Reliability implores researchers to ensure that their outcomes should be consistent across different parameters as assessed by various measures and individuals (Moon, 2019). On its part, validity is about accuracy of a measure used in research and shows the extent to which the outcomes really measure what they should measure. Validity attains its purpose by checking how well the outcomes align with established frameworks, theories and best practices in clinical settings. For instance, if a research study has high validity, it implies that it produces results that align with real features, variations and characteristics in the physical or social world.
The two concepts have a relationship. A reliable measurement may not be a valid measure as the results might be reproducible but not necessarily correct. However, a valid measurement is mostly reliable since an accurate test produces an accurate result and they can be reproducible. Reliability and validity relate to translational research as they demonstrate the accuracy and consistency in the results or findings. They also demonstrate that the outcomes can be assessed and comply with existing frameworks and theoretical models (Trautman et al., 2018). The two concepts illustrate the need for researchers to demonstrate consistency and accuracy in their findings. Translational researchers also rely on the two concepts to improve acceptability of their findings.
References
Moon, M. D. (2019). Triangulation: A method to increase validity, reliability, and legitimation in
clinical research. Journal of Emergency Nursing, 45(1), 103-105. doi: 10.1016/j.jen.2018.11.004.
Trautman, D. E., Idzik, S., Hammersla, M., & Rosseter, R. (2018). Advancing scholarship
through translational research: The role of PhD and DNP prepared nurses. Online Journal of Issues in Nursing, 23(2). DOI:10.3912/OJIN.Vol23No02Man02
Order this paper