Cronbach’s Coefficient Alpha

This study disproves the following six common misconceptions about coefficient alpha: (a) Alpha was first developed by Cronbach. (b) Alpha equals reliability. (c) A high value of alpha is an indication of internal consistency. (d) Reliability will always be improved by deleting items using “alpha if item deleted.” (e) Alpha should be greater than or equal to .7 (or, alternatively, .8). (f) Alpha is the best choice among all published reliability coefficients. This study discusses the inaccuracy of each of these misconceptions and provides a correct statement. This study recommends that the assumptions of unidimensionality and tau-equivalency be examined before the application of alpha and that structural…

• KU
  Kwangwoon University