Discussion on What Does It Mean to be Objective? & Reliability and Validity

6.1 Discussion: What Does It Mean to be Objective?

Getting Started

In most forms of research, researchers are supposed to be objective and free from bias.  However, in reality, researchers have their own backgrounds and bias that can affect their studies.  This activity will help you better understand this challenge faced by every researcher.

Upon successful completion of the course material, you will be able to:

• Assess the implication of various approaches to research.

Resources

• Chapter 7 Arbnor and Bjerke

Background Information

Every researcher is biased in some way.  It is essential that you understand your own biases.  This takes practice.  This activity will help you look at the concept of objectivity and how accomplished researchers in the past have struggled with the same topic.

Instructions

1. Review the rubric to make sure you understand the criteria for earning your grade.
2. Prepare a discussion posting of at least 500 words that answers the following questions:
   1. How do the different views look at the problem of objectivity?
   2. Objectivity is a concept that had haunted science for centuries.  Give some reasons for why this is so.

6.2 Discussion: Reliability and Validity

Getting Started

Reliability and validity are two concepts greatly desired in research.  Yet how one defines these topics varies based on the research paradigm one holds.  This activity will take you further into these concepts.

Upon successful completion of the course material, you will be able to:

• Distinguish the important aspects of the three research methodologies.

Resources

• Chapter 7 Arbnor and Bjerke

Background Information

Reliability is the ability to consistently measure a characteristic; validity is the ability to accurately measure a desired characteristic.

Instructions

1. Review the rubric to make sure you understand the criteria for earning your grade.
2. Prepare a discussion posting of at least 500 words that answers the following questions:
   1. How do you describe the concepts of validity and reliability? 
   2. From what view did you use in providing that description?