This guide will walk you through the task validation methods available in MUiQ.

When choosing a task validation method for URL-based tasks (i.e. tasks set to "Send to Target URL") in MUiQ, consider the nature of the task and how best to determine if participants successfully completed it. You can find task validation towards the bottom within each respective task editor under Study Structure > Tasks.

MUiQ offers two main methods for measuring task success:

Validation by Question

This method involves presenting participants with a multiple-choice question immediately following the task. The question aims to verify if participants successfully achieved the task's objective. 

After entering the question text and answers (List Options), select which options are correct answer(s), which will be counted as task success in the results. Incorrect answer(s) will be counted as failures.

For example, after a task requiring participants to find a specific hotel, the validation question could ask: "What was the price of the blender?".

❗Clearly state in the Task Instructions at the beginning of the task that participants should note any necessary information to answer the validation question.

URL-based Task Validation

This method entails specifying a list of URLs that indicate successful task completion. Participants accessing these predefined URLs are considered to have successfully completed the task.

This method is particularly useful when task success is directly tied to reaching a specific webpage or completing an action that leads to a particular URL.

Key Considerations for Choosing a Validation Method:

• Task Complexity and Specificity: For simple tasks with easily verifiable outcomes, Validation by URL might suffice. However, for more intricate tasks involving multiple steps or nuanced goals, Validation by Question can provide a more accurate assessment of success.

• Information Required for Validation: If task success relies on specific information that participants need to acquire or remember, Validation by Question is a better choice as it allows you to directly probe their understanding.

• Potential for Ambiguity: If there is a chance of participants reaching a success URL without genuinely completing the task, Validation by Question can help mitigate this ambiguity.

Additional Tips:

• Pilot Testing: Conducting pilot tests can help you evaluate the effectiveness of your chosen validation method and identify any potential issues.

• Flexibility: MUiQ allows you to adjust correct answers for Validation by Question or modify the success URLs for Validation by URL after collecting results [2]. This flexibility provides room for refinement based on participant behavior.