What does reliability in the context of testing refer to?

Reliability in the context of testing refers to the consistency of a test over time. This means that if the same test is administered to the same group of individuals at different points in time, the results should be similar if the test is reliable. High reliability indicates that the test is free from random errors and produces stable and consistent results, which is essential for accurate assessment and evaluation.

When a test demonstrates reliability, it can be trusted to provide a dependable measure of a student’s abilities or knowledge, making it a valuable tool in educational settings, especially when assessing students with mild to moderate disabilities. Consistent performance on multiple occasions allows educators to make sound decisions regarding interventions, supports, or further assessments needed for those students.