Construct Validity in Software Engineering

Empirical research aims to establish generalizable claims from data. Such may involve concepts that must be measured indirectly by using indicators. Construct validity is concerned with whether one can justifiably make at the conceptual level are supported results operational level. We report a quantitative analysis of awareness construct in software engineering literature between 2000 and 2019 qualitative review 83 articles about human-centric experiments published five high-quality journals 2015 2019. Over two decades, appearance term increased sevenfold. Some reviewed we employed various ways ensure indicators span concept an unbiased manner. also found reuse formerly validated constructs. However, disagree how define validity. Several interpret excessively including threats internal, external, or statistical conclusion A few include fundamental challenges study, such as cheating misunderstanding experiment material. The diversity topics included calls for more minimalist approach. Based on review, propose seven guidelines improve handled reported engineering.