Measurement instruments and data collection: a consideration of constructs and biases in ergonomics research

摘要

Theoretical assumptions become valid only when they are tested empirically. Whenever measurement instruments are used one needs to be sure that they yield accurate information for the construct of interest. This article outlines the measurement instruments properties and their impact on research as well as the differences and similarities between biases that could occur in different measurement and data collection procedures. Important criteria that must be met when developing a new measuring tool are presented in detail. The purpose of this review paper is to gather and organize the relevant information regarding measurement bias in research. It outlines important steps that will lead to a decreased error in measurement and data collection. As more and more ergonomic decisions are taken based on the research outcome, the impact of the quality of measurement in various intervention programs becomes increasingly critical.