enumeration of frequencies (Zomerdijk, 2005). In this research, it is the findings on
modularity aspects and practices that should be generalizable since we are developing
theory concerning modularity in long-term care.
To sustain the external validity of our findings, we employed several sampling tactics
and we compared our findings with existing literature. With respect to the sampling
strategy, we selected multiple cases in order to look for literal replication of the findings.
Within the case sample, we selected for maximum variation on various aspects. We
covered a wide range of providers and our sample reflects the variation that exists
among suppliers of care and services in the field of long-term care for the elderly.
Another sampling tactic was the within case focus on the total care process. This
process is common to long-term care providers in general, which means that there
will be a relatively large group of organizations dealing with the same activities and
sub-processes, and delivering the same care and service parts as we studied.
4.7.4 Reliability
Reliability of a study demonstrates that the operations of a study can be repeated with
the same results and has the goal of minimizing errors and biases in the research
(Yin, 2003). For this study, reliability means ensuring that, when following the same
procedures for the same cases, another researcher can obtain the same findings and
results with respect to modularity in long-term care. Reliability is often achieved
through documentation and tactics for avoiding researcher bias.
To support the reliability of this study, we have employed several tactics. We selected
multiple cases for our research and developed a case study protocol to ensure consistency
over the cases. To reduce researcher bias and increase objectivity of the data we made
use of multiple interviewees and multiple coders. In addition, we taped and transcribed
the interviews and we used software for qualitative data analysis. Finally, setting up
a chain of evidence and the extensive use of memos increase the transparency and
traceability of steps taken in this study since choices, idea development, and changes
throughout the research process are explicated.
Table 4.4 provides a summary of the tactics we have employed throughout the case
study research to support the validity and generalizability of our findings.
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Table 4.4 Summary of the tactics to ensure validity and generalizability
Criteria
Definition (Yin, 2003)
Tactics employed in this study
Construct validity
Extent to which the research
instruments measure what they
are supposed to measure; establish
correct operational measures for
the constructs being studied
Triangulation of data collection methods and
of data sources
Member check of the interview transcripts
Expert meetings during data collection and
data analysis
Use of multiple coders
Chain of evidence
Internal validity
Extent to which conclusions can be
drawn for causal effects and causal
relationships can be established
Open conceptual model
Investigated patterns across the case studies
Comparison of data with existing theoretical
insights
External validity
Extent to which the research
results can be applied to the
populations and the settings of
interest; establishes a domain in
which the findings of the study can
be generalized
Multiple case design based on literal
replication
Sampling of four different case organizations
Selection of common research focus within
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Comparison of findings with existing
theoretical insights
Reliability
Extent to which the findings
demonstrate replicability
Multiple case design
Study protocol to document the data
collection procedures
Multiple respondents
Interviews were taped and transcribed
Multiple coders
Software for qualitative data analysis
Memo-ing and documenting the research
process
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