Learning Objectives

After reading this chapter, you should be able to

  • „„Explain the meaning of confounding variables.
     
  • „„Explain the meaning of statistical conclusion validity, construct validity, internal validity, and external validity and their importance in the research process.
     
  • „„Identify and explain the types of evidence that are needed to reach a causal conclusion.
     
  • „„Explain the threats to internal validity and be able to identify when they might exist in a research study.
     
  • „„Explain the threats to external validity and when they might exist in a research study.
     
  • „„Explain the role of operationalization of constructs in research.
     
  • „„Identify and explain the types of validity or trustworthiness used in qualitative research.
     
  • „„Identify and explain the types of validity or legitimation used in mixed research.