Skip to main content

Posts

Showing posts with the label correctness

What is Validity?

Validity is a mighty big word. It seems to have its own meaning for each subject, though most center on the notions of correctness, consistency, conformity, and accuracy.   In fact, just Google, “whatchacallit validity” to get another definition.   Below are a few notions of important definitions. a.        As a state, as in being authentic or genuine. b.        As a force, for example legally. c.        As a measurement, as implying it does measure what is purported. d.        In research, as in the accuracy of measurements. e.        As proof, as in obeying the laws of accepted logic and premises. f.         As approved, as by an authority. g.        In statistics, as following and satisfying statistical tests. h.        In methodology, as in properly observing accepted procedures. i.          In prediction, as in how a test predicts another criterion. j.          In construct, as in the degree to which inferences can be made or how two tests closely compare.

Intolerance in the name of tolerance

The tyranny of correctness.   Currently, we see a reversal within the party of inclusion to a party of intolerance in the name of tolerance.   If you do not agree with me, so they say, you must be racist, sexist, islamophobe, homophobe, or some other -ist or - phobic .   So fantastic are these to be unbelievable.  Usually, you call others the names you would yourself abhor. So, name-calling has a limited reach. They have forgotten what made them great.   They have embraced some easy targets while ignoring all but a couple of large groups, assuming their old-time supporters would continue to support.   They have made the fundamental mistake of assuming those in the tank should damn well stay there. Like Pandora’s box, once released, these forces roam independently. How can they put them back in their tank?   Maybe they will offer more promises, which of course translates into more spending. Maybe they will offer more detractors up to the pillory.   Yet, this

Problem Solving - the pathway to the impossible

Problem Solving – the pathway to the impossible Life is problem solving.   From work to school to religion; in love in pleasure, in strife, we are always solving something.  Some problems are simple, some tricky, some poorly defined, some complex.  Many are impossible. We have not set about to discuss school math problems.  In a sense, these are the simplest of all because much of the toolkit needed for solving them have been presented in the course.  These problems are those with the greatest clarity, a unique solution, and for them there is always a final resolution.  You get it or you don’t.  We have an array of problem solving methods, from logic to emotion, from instinct to intuition, from random to programmed, and more.  These methods are applied individually or in combination, often generating intrinsic conflicts, resulting is partials solutions, no solution, personal solutions, new problems, new situation, and impossible situations.  Results can be satisfying or frustrating,