Generalizability describes whether the results of individual studies and investigation samples can be applied to other studies and investigation samples. As part of meta-analysis (validity generalization) it makes a statement about the sample independence of the validity of a selection process.

Exists when research findings apply beyond the specific case examined.

Generalizability refers to the degree to which the findings from a study sample accurately represent what would have been found if the entire population had been studied.

in testing theory, inferring from "the score on a sample of behaviors to the average of all the observations that could be in the domain" (Cronbach, 1984). Note: Generalizability is a theoretical alternative to a true-score concept of error of measurement. "True-score theory speaks as if error variance were all of one kind. Generalizability theory recognizes that there are several kinds of errors and alternative universes of generalization" (Cronbach, 1984). See also error of measurement.