A music teacher wants to test her students on their piano skills. She then proceeds to administer a multiple-choice test. This test lacks

• A. reliability.
• B. consistency.
• C. validity.
• D. objectivity.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of 'validity' in psychological testing: Validity refers to the extent to which a test measures what it claims to measure. In this context, the music teacher's test should accurately assess the students' piano skills.
2. Differentiate between reliability and validity: Reliability refers to the consistency of a test's results over time, while validity is about the accuracy of what the test is measuring.
3. Consider why the test might lack validity: If the multiple-choice test does not accurately reflect the students' ability to play the piano, it lacks validity. For example, if the questions are more about music theory rather than practical piano skills, the test may not be valid.
4. Evaluate the test's objectivity: Objectivity refers to the degree to which test results are not influenced by the examiner's biases. A multiple-choice format is typically objective, as it provides clear right or wrong answers.
5. Conclude by identifying the correct issue: Since the problem states that the test lacks validity, it implies that the test does not effectively measure the students' piano skills, which is the intended purpose of the test.