HMS, BM EQ-Bank 420

During an investigation into aerobic training responses, a researcher collected data on participants' maximum heart rates using a variety of consumer fitness watches.

Explain the potential impact of this approach on the validity, reliability and credibility of the investigation. Provide recommendations for improvement. (5 marks)

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Sample Answer

Using various consumer fitness watches creates significant reliability issues because inconsistent measurement algorithms between devices lead to systematic errors when comparing participants’ data.
The reason for this is that different watch brands use varying sensor technologies and calculation methods which results in unreliable heart rate measurements across the study.
Consumer watches typically prioritise comfort and battery life over precision which causes validity problems as they may underestimate true maximum heart rates during intense exercise.
This leads to compromised credibility because non-research-grade equipment lacks established validity against criterion measures like chest strap monitors.
To improve reliability researchers should standardise by using identical devices for all participants which ensures consistent measurement methods throughout the investigation.
Therefore validity would be enhanced by validating selected devices against criterion measures during pilot testing or selecting research-validated consumer devices with documented accuracy.

Show Worked Solution

Sample Answer

Using various consumer fitness watches creates significant reliability issues because inconsistent measurement algorithms between devices lead to systematic errors when comparing participants’ data.
The reason for this is that different watch brands use varying sensor technologies and calculation methods which results in unreliable heart rate measurements across the study.
Consumer watches typically prioritise comfort and battery life over precision which causes validity problems as they may underestimate true maximum heart rates during intense exercise.
This leads to compromised credibility because non-research-grade equipment lacks established validity against criterion measures like chest strap monitors.
To improve reliability researchers should standardise by using identical devices for all participants which ensures consistent measurement methods throughout the investigation.
Therefore validity would be enhanced by validating selected devices against criterion measures during pilot testing or selecting research-validated consumer devices with documented accuracy.