What is external validity in evaluation?

External validity refers to the extent to which the findings from an evaluation or research study can be generalized beyond the specific conditions or sample used in the study. This concept is crucial in evaluation research because it determines how applicable the results are to different settings, populations, or times. When findings have high external validity, it suggests that similar effects can be expected in contexts other than the one studied, making the research broadly relevant.

The option that discusses the ability to replicate findings in similar studies focuses more on the reliability of results rather than generalizability. While replication is important, it does not inherently address whether the results can be applied outside the original study context.

Meanwhile, internal measures concern the accuracy and reliability of the evaluation’s own data and findings, which is an important aspect of a study but does not pertain directly to external validity. Lastly, evaluating the methodology used is essential for understanding the rigor and credibility of an evaluation but does not speak to how those results apply to other scenarios, which is the heart of external validity.

Thus, the correct focus is on the generalizability of the findings to other settings or populations, which is precisely what this option conveys.