Measurement Library

Measure Review Criteria

Throughout the Library you will notice each Consortium measure is categorized by one of three illustrations: a fruit-bearing tree, a young tree or a seedling.

We use these symbols as part of our commitment to thoroughness and transparency. There is a range of evidence available on the reliability and validity of each Consortium measure, and we recognize that this evidence may be difficult to interpret. Reliability refers to how consistent and accurate data provided by the measure is. Validity refers to how meaningful data provided by the measure is. The symbols are meant to illustrate the extent of the evidence thus far, and how confident we are that the measure can be used in the specified context and for the specified purpose to provide high-quality data.

The full-grown tree symbol signifies a measure has strong evidence of validity and reliability for the specified purpose and context. The young tree signifies a measure shows promising evidence of validity and reliability but requires further revisions and testing. The seed signifies that the measure is under development and not yet ready for use. We explore in greater detail below.

SeedThere is not yet evidence of the types of reliability and validity needed for use of the measure for its specified purpose. Given the sampling design, sample size, and rigor of psychometric method, there is uncertainty in the replicability and/or accuracy of the evidence if tested with a similar sample. If interested in use of the measure, please contact the developer for further information.

SaplingThere is promising evidence of the types of reliability and validity needed for use of the measure for its specified purpose. Given the sampling design, sample size, and rigor of psychometric method, there is some confidence in the replicability and/or accuracy of the evidence if tested with a similar sample. Recommendations for revisions are provided, and we encourage additional testing of the measure and sharing back of the results. 

TreeThere is strong evidence of the types of reliability and validity needed for use of the measure for its specified purpose. Given the sampling design, sample size, and rigor of psychometric method, we have good confidence in the quality of the evidence. Recommendations for modest revisions are provided for use in a similar context and for the same purpose. For use in a new context or for a new purpose, the measure should be adapted, tested, and the results shared back.