A philosopher of science is evaluating 15 research studies, each with a validity score between 0 and 1. The average validity score is 0.72. After re-evaluating, she finds that one study—initially scored 0.45—actually had a score of 0.65, while another study, initially 0.50, should be 0.95. What is the corrected average validity score across all 15 studies?

Sat, 09 May 2026 00:50:30 +0000

Correcting Validity Scores: How Accurate Re-evaluation Impacts Average Scientific Rigor In scientific research, validity scores are critical metrics reflecting the reliability and soundness of study methodologies. When a team of philosopher of science evaluates 15 studies, statistical analysis reveals an initial average validity score of 0.72. However, close re-examination uncovers and corrects inaccuracies in two crucial scores, significantly influencing the final average. Initially, one study scored 0.45, but upon deeper review, its true validity is 0.65—a substantial improvement. Meanwhile, another study was initially rated 0.50, yet proper evaluation shows its actual validity is 0.95, a dramatic increase. These corrections correct prior miscalculations, offering a more accurate representation of the research pool’s collective rigor. To recalculate the corrected average validity score: