2.2.4 Face Validity
Face validity is viewed as the extent to which a test appears on the surface to accurately assess what it is meant to assess (Hughes 1989:27). Problems with face validity could result in a test not being accepted or used (Hughes 1989:27), and would possibly interact with a candidate's performance on the test. To avoid issues with face validity, Hughes (1989:27) notes the need for
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novel testing methods, in particular indirect measures to be introduced slowly and with sufficient explanation.
2.3 Reliability-Construct Validity Tensions
While reliability is a necessary condition for validity (Bachman 1990:160), both Bachman and Palmer (1996:23) and Hughes (1989:42) note there is also a tension between them. This could be exemplified in a situation where a desire to have a highly reliable test of writing could result in the use of a multiple choice error recognition test as a measure, however this test would likely be considered to have less construct validity than a less reliable but more direct test of writing