Generalization in quantitative and qualitative research: Myths and strategies
Generalization in quantitative and qualitative research: Myths and strategies
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DOI：
10.1016/j.ijnurstu.2010.06.004
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发表时间：
2010-11-01
影响因子：
8.1
通讯作者：
Beck, Cheryl Tatano
中科院分区：
文献类型：
--
作者：
Polit, Denise F.;Beck, Cheryl Tatano
概括是一种推理行为，涉及从特定的观察中得出广泛的推论，被广泛认为是定量研究的质量标准，但在定性研究中更具争议。大多数定性研究的目标不是概括，而是通过对特定案例的深入研究，对人类经验的某些方面提供丰富的、有背景的理解。然而，在一个环境中的证据，以提高实践是在高度尊重，泛化有关的知识索赔值得认真注意的定性和定量研究人员。然而，与泛化相关的问题往往被这两组研究人员忽视或歪曲。本文讨论了凡士通在一篇开创性文章中提出的三种泛化模型：经典的样本到总体（统计）泛化、分析泛化和案例到案例转移（可转移性）。提出了提高这三种模型泛化能力的建议。这些建议包括计划复制、抽样策略、系统评价、反身性和高阶概念化、厚描述、混合方法研究以及语用试验中的RE-AIM框架。(C)2010爱思唯尔有限公司版权所有。
Generalization, which is an act of reasoning that involves drawing broad inferences from particular observations, is widely-acknowledged as a quality standard in quantitative research, but is more controversial in qualitative research. The goal of most qualitative studies is not to generalize but rather to provide a rich, contextualized understanding of some aspect of human experience through the intensive study of particular cases. Yet, in an environment where evidence for improving practice is held in high esteem, generalization in relation to knowledge claims merits careful attention by both qualitative and quantitative researchers. Issues relating to generalization are, however, often ignored or misrepresented by both groups of researchers. Three models of generalization, as proposed in a seminal article by Firestone, are discussed in this paper: classic sample-to-population (statistical) generalization, analytic generalization, and case-to-case transfer (transferability). Suggestions for enhancing the capacity for generalization in terms of all three models are offered. The suggestions cover such issues as planned replication, sampling strategies, systematic reviews, reflexivity and higher-order conceptualization, thick description, mixed methods research, and the RE-AIM framework within pragmatic trials. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.