Two factors influence external validity; which option correctly describes external validity?

Two factors influence external validity; which option correctly describes external validity?

• A. External validity is the applicability of results to other populations/settings; influenced by sample representativeness and real-world conditions.
• B. External validity is the accuracy of measurement instruments.
• C. External validity is the generalizability of findings; influenced by study setting and diversity of participants.
• D. External validity is unrelated to population generalizability.

Answer: (C)

External validity is about whether what you found in the study will generalize to other populations, settings, and times beyond the exact conditions of the study. The best description emphasizes generalizability of the findings and points to two key determinants: the study setting and the diversity of participants. If a study is done in a single, highly controlled setting or with a very homogeneous group, its results may not apply elsewhere. The other option describes measurement accuracy, which is a different concern tied to the quality of instruments rather than how broadly the results apply. Saying external validity isn’t related to population generalizability contradicts the fundamental idea that external validity concerns transferring findings to other groups.

External validity is about whether what you found in the study will generalize to other populations, settings, and times beyond the exact conditions of the study. The best description emphasizes generalizability of the findings and points to two key determinants: the study setting and the diversity of participants. If a study is done in a single, highly controlled setting or with a very homogeneous group, its results may not apply elsewhere. The other option describes measurement accuracy, which is a different concern tied to the quality of instruments rather than how broadly the results apply. Saying external validity isn’t related to population generalizability contradicts the fundamental idea that external validity concerns transferring findings to other groups.