Which of the following best describes 'reliability' in assessments?

Reliability in assessments refers to the consistency of measurement results across multiple attempts. This means that if an assessment is reliable, it will yield similar results regardless of when or how many times it is administered, as long as the conditions remain the same. For example, if a student takes the same test at different times, a reliable assessment would produce comparable scores, indicating that the test is measuring the same underlying ability or knowledge consistently.

In an educational setting, a reliable assessment ensures that the results are trustworthy and valid, reflecting a true representation of what the students know or can do. This consistency is crucial for making informed decisions about student learning, instructional strategies, and educational outcomes.

Understanding reliability is central for school leaders as they evaluate different assessments and interpret student performance data, ensuring they are making data-informed decisions based on solid evidence.