University Park / World Campus:
Ellysa Cahoy
(ellysa@psu.edu or 814-865-9696)
University Park / World Campus:
Nonny Schlotzhauer
(nonny@psu.edu or 814-863-4644)
Harrisburg / University Park / World Campus:
Bernadette Lear
(BAL19@psu.edu or 717-948-6360)
How do you know whether you've found a “good” or “bad” instrument? Is the instrument well-designed?
Researchers often discuss the "reliability" and “validity” of instruments, rather than whether they are “good” or “bad.” According to this video and other resources from Sage Research Methods Core, reliability is about the consistency of test results. Validity is about whether test results represent what they are supposed to represent.
At this point, the library doesn’t have staff with expertise to recommend or evaluate instruments. So, please contact your professor.
If you find a copy of an instrument, can you just go ahead and use it?
No. Some instruments can only be purchased, administered, or interpreted by a licensed or certified professional.
Even if you are qualified, there are other things you may need to do first. These include, but are not limited to:
Always consult with your professor about the design of your research project, before you undertake it!
CAUTION: Various government regulations, professional codes, and institutional policies determine how educational/psychological testing must be conducted. Below are only some of the documents and agencies that pertain to Penn State faculty and students:
Documents
Agencies