Forum 3

Respond to 2 discussions written by me. They should be labeled 1 and 2 and need to be 150 words in length each. I will provide an example of how they should be written.

1. When a tool of assessment is characterized as reliable it means that it gives the same results each time it is used in the same setting with the same type of subjects; it has consistent or dependable results. Reliability is part of the assessment of validity.
The conditions one might expect an otherwise useful tool of assessment to be unreliable has to do with many things such as variances and measurement error. Variance from true differences is true variance, and variance from irrelevant, random sources is error variance, (Cohen & Swerdlik, 2018). Because error variance may increase or decrease a test score by fluctuating amounts, consistency of the test score and consequently there can be an effect on the reliability. Measurement error can be characterized as being either systematic or random. The term measurement error denotes all of the factors connected with the process of measuring some variable, other than the variable being measured. Random error is a foundation of error in measuring a targeted variable instigated by unpredictable variations and discrepancies of other variables in the measurement process, (Cohen & Swerdlik, 2018). Systematic error denotes a foundation of error in measuring a variable that is typically persistent or proportionate to what is assumed to be the true value of the variable being measured.
The statement, A test is valid means that the test is determined absolute or comparative based on a judgment or approximation of how well a test measures what it signifies to measure in a specific context. It is a judgment based on proof about the suitability of conclusions drawn from test scores. Tests may be shown to be valid within what we would distinguish as reasonable limitations of a considered usage. If the limitations are exceeded, the validity of the test may be questioned.  Absolute validity denotes the agreement between two sets of data measuring the same subject matter with the same units. Relative validity is the degree to which two methods, regardless of units, rank individuals in the same order. A test can be valid at one time and place with one population of test-takers and invalid at another time, in another place, or with another group of test-takers due to bias and fairness. Bias is a factor inherent in a test that systematically prevents accurate, impartial measurement. If there were a test that had only questions on a particular culture, such as Asians, and you gave that test to Latinos, it would be biased towards favoritism of Asians. Fairness is the extent to which a test is used in an impartial, just, and equitable way. Psalm 9:8 tells us, and he judges the world with righteousness; he judges the peoples with uprightness, (ESV). There must be fairness in all tests as that is how God would want us to treat one another.

2. First reliability means dependability or consistency. Reliability refers to consistency in measurement, it is simply consistent. “Reliability refers to the proportion of the total variance attributed to true variance. Reliability is the extent to which measurements are consistent or repeatable” (Cohen & Swerdlik, 2007 pg. 142). When a tool of assessment is characterized by reliable, it means the greater the proportion of the total variance attributed to true variance, the more reliable the test. The assessment has to be assumed to be stable. presumed to yield consistent scores on repeated administration of the same test as well as one equivalent forms of tests (Cohen & Swerdlik, 2007).
If circumstances like “error variance may increase or decrease a test score by varying amounts, consistency of the test score, the reliability can be affected” (Cohen & Swerdlik, 2007 pg. 142). If measurement error occurs then the tool of assessment may prove to be unreliable. “Measurement error refers to collectively all the factors associated with the process of measuring some variable other than the variable being measured” (Cohen & Swerdlik, 2007 pg. 142). Other conditions like random error and systematic error occur during the test are proven unreliable. “Random error is a source of error in measuring a targeted variable caused by unpredictable fluctuations and inconsistencies of other variables in the measurement process. Random errors could conceivably affect test scores range from unanticipated events happening in the test environment . Systematic error refers to a source of error in measuring a variable that is typically consistent and proportionate to what is presumed to be the true value of the variable being measured” (Cohen & Swerdlik, 2007 pg. 142). Measuring instrument itself that has been found to be a source of systemic error. Once it becomes known it becomes predictable and fixable. Other sources of error variance include test construction, administration, scoring and interpretation (Cohen & Swerdlik , 2007).
To prove a test is valid in other words absolute or relative, judgment must be based on evidence about the appropriateness of inferences drawn from test scores. An instruments’ validity is useful for a particular purpose with a particular population. “No test or measurement technique is “universally valid” for all time, for all users, with all types of test taker populations. Rather, tests may be shown to be valid as reasonable boundaries of a contemplated usage” (Cohen & Swerdlik , 2007 pg. 176). The Bible describes as God always been reliable and true. Whatever God says and has done is absolute truth and it has aways been true. It is based on what God has made evident to us. “They know the truth about God because he has made it obvious to them. For ever since the world was created, through everything God has made, they clearly see his invisible qualities his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God (Romans 1:19-20 NLT).

Reference

Cohen, R.J. & Swerdlik, M.E. (2017). Psychological testing and assessment: An introduction to tests and measurement (9th ed.). Boston, MA: McGraw-Hill.

EXAMPLE:
Thanks for posting; I enjoyed reading your ideas about reliability and validity!  As you said, reliability is certainly important when using any tool of assessment.  When a tool of assessment is said to be unreliable, this means that the tool cannot produce consistent results (Cohen & Swerdlik, 2018).  For example, an unreliable watch would fail to display the correct time, which would cause most people to buy a new watch, as this watch could not be used to tell them the time that their work shift starts or the moment their lunch break begins.  Therefore, reliability is an important measure that can determine whether or not a tool of assessment should be used (Cohen & Swerdlik, 2018).
I appreciate how you mentioned that a tests validity can be understood in absolute and relative terms.  Within a particular context and with a particular population, a test can certainly be deemed valid or invalid (Cohen & Swerdlik, 2018).  However, relativity plays a role when a test cannot measure what it claims to measure due to a difference in context and population.  Many tests intentionally and sometimes unintentionally target a particular population, which means that its validity is dependent on the population of test takers (Cohen & Swerdlik, 2018).  As you stated, it is also important to choose the best tool of assessment after evaluating its characteristics and validity.  This requires discernment, but is ultimately necessary in order to make a judgment about how well the tool measures what it claims to measure (Cohen & Swerdlik, 2018). Psalm 119:66 (NIV) gives us a great model of how to ask God for good judgment in this by saying, Teach me knowledge and good judgment, for I trust your commands.

ENG101

Case 1: Illustration/Example Essay
Length: no less than 700 words, double-spaced, Times New Roman, 12 pt font size
This essay is to consist of your own thoughts, words, and ideas. No secondary sources are to be used in this essay.
The first person “I” is not used in a formal essay.

Case Assignment

For this assignment, you will choose one term from the list below and define the term using illustration and example, making sure that the definition is your own and that it is not simply a paraphrasing of a definition shared elsewhere.
A well-organized essay has a beginning, a middle, and an end. The beginning, or introduction, should include an opening sentence to grab your readers attention. Follow the opening sentence with a brief background on the topic or situation. The last sentence of the introduction is the thesis statement. The thesis states the main point of the essay, which in this case, would be the defining of a term.
A well-supported essay includes supporting points, details, and examples. An essay with three points may be divided into three body paragraphs, one for each point describing the term. Each body paragraph must begin with a topic sentence that states the main point of the paragraph.
The conclusion typically summarizes the main points of the essay and/or closes with a lasting impression that connects the reader to their world.
Be sure to proofread your essay and edit for proper grammar, punctuation, diction (word choice), and spelling, as errors in sentence skills will lower a final grade. A grade will be determined based on the Module 1 Case expectations and the Trident University General Education rubric for English found in the course syllabus.

mother
father
patriot
friend
wealth
success

Assignment Expectations

Write a definition essay (no less than 700 words in length) that states an original thesis statement.
Demonstrate the ability to write clearly and cohesively when expressing ones ideas and/or intended purpose.
Demonstrate the ability to clearly state and support a thesis in an organized and cohesive essay.

Phoenix MKT 421 Apply: Five Step Marketing Research Approach PowerPoint

Scenario: You are the marketing manager for a local nonprofit charity whose funding is derived from membership fees. You have noticed a severe drop in new memberships and a decline in repeat memberships, which is threatening your organization’s ability to survive and grow. You have decided to implement the Five-Step Marketing Research Approach to help clarify the problem and develop strategies for implementation.

Create a 10- to 15-slide Microsoft PowerPoint presentation with speaker notes on the Five-Step Marketing Research Approach in which you detail the steps you will use to address the membership issue that the local nonprofit charity is facing.

Address the following in your role as marketing manager:

  • Define the Five-Step Marketing Research Approach and discuss the importance of research in marketing. 
  • Describe each step of the Marketing Research Approach in detail and create a plan of attack to explain how each stage should be implemented.
  • Define the target market that you are striving to bring into this organization and describe the methods of research that you will use to identify these groups of people.
  • Define service differentiation. Provide an example that illustrates how the local nonprofit charity in the scenario can use differentiation to help increase the target market’s interest.
  • Explain how differentiation will help position the charitable organization within its defined market.

Cyber Security Planning And Mgmt – Week 4

  • What do you believe to be the most compelling reason to migrate information to the cloud? What is your biggest security concern about doing so? (300 words)
  • AssignmentCompare and contrast two difference cloud computing services (Amazon Web Service and Microsoft Azure). Explain the differences and the similarities and select your choice of providers if you had to make the decision for your business. Write up a comparison on the services offered (2 pages maximum). Once again, it is essential that you use your own words (do not just copy and paste from the Internet).

    These two links may offer some additional information for this assignment but you are encouraged to use additional sources for your project/assignment.

    Upload your completed assignment here by clicking the BLUE assignment link above. ( 2 Pages)