The construct validity of the h-index

Abstract

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to show how bibliometrics would benefit from a stronger programme of construct validity. Design/methodology/approach - The value of the construct validity concept is demonstrated by applying this approach to the evaluation of the h-index, a widely used metric. Findings - The paper demonstrates that the h-index comprehensively fails any test of construct validity. In simple terms, the metric does not measure what it purports to measure. This conclusion suggests that the current popularity of the h-index as a topic for bibliometric research represents wasted effort, which might have been avoided if researchers had adopted the approach suggested in this paper. Research limitations/implications - This study is based on the analysis of a single bibliometric concept. Practical implications - The conclusion that the h-index fails any test in terms of construct validity implies that the widespread use of this metric within the higher education sector as a management tool represents poor practice, and almost certainly results in the misallocation of resources. Social implications - This paper suggests that the current enthusiasm for the h-index within the higher education sector is misplaced. The implication is that universities, grant funding bodies and faculty administrators should abandon the use of the h-index as a management tool. Such a change would have a significant effect on current hiring, promotion and tenure practices within the sector, as well as current attitudes towards the measurement of academic performance. Originality/value - The originality of the paper lies in the systematic application of the concept of construct validity to bibliometric enquiry.