How can reliability of a test be increased?

Correct option is B

The reliability of a test can be increased by increasing the test length. This is because a longer test typically allows for a more accurate measure of a student's abilities, reducing the influence of random errors. More items provide a better representation of the content being tested and can balance out fluctuations in individual responses.
Information Booster:
1. Reliability: Refers to the consistency of a test in measuring what it is supposed to measure.
2. Test length: A longer test increases reliability by offering a broader sample of behavior or knowledge, which smooths out inconsistencies.
3. Test format: Reliability is also influenced by factors such as the type of questions used (objective or subjective).
4. Internal consistency: Reliability improves when items on the test measure the same construct.
5. Test-retest reliability: If a test is administered multiple times, increasing its length helps in achieving consistent results across administrations.
Additional Knowledge:
 Seeking expert’s agreement (a): This is relevant for improving content validity of a test but does not directly affect reliability. Expert consensus ensures the test measures the intended content but doesn’t guarantee consistent results across administrations.
 Increasing the test length (b): The most effective way to improve reliability. Longer tests are less vulnerable to errors caused by guessing or variability in individual performance, making scores more stable and consistent.
 Shortening the test length (c): This would decrease reliability, as fewer items provide less data to assess a student’s overall ability, increasing the potential for variability due to chance.
 Arranging items in order of difficulty (d): While this may improve the test-taking experience and reduce fatigue effects, it doesn’t directly enhance reliability. It is more aligned with ensuring the test is valid and well-structured.