Split-half method of estimating reliability index: a comparison of the odd-even and first-and second-half ways of splitting test items

Abstract

Sequel to the limited knowledge of the split-half method of estimating reliability
co-efficient by many post-graduate students of Delta State University, Abraka, this
study sought to compare the odd-even and first- and second-half ways of splitting
mathematics test items into equivalent halves. The purpose was to enlighten our
post-graduate students on the choice of the method of splitting test items into two
equivalent halves. A sample of 105 students were selected from the final year
secondary school students in Edo and Delta states of Nigeria. The two states are in
the south-south geo-political zone of Nigeria. They also made up the defunct
Bendel State. A total of thirty-five students was drawn from a secondary school in
Edo State. The same number of students was selected from each of the two schools
selected from Delta State. The mathematics test items examined by a regional
examination body, the West African Examinations Council for May/June 2009,
2010 and 2011 were used as instrument for the study. A correlational survey
design was employed in the study.