ERIC Number: EJ1170693
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2018-Mar
Pages: 37
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0049-1241
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Key Informant Models for Measuring Group-Level Variables in Small Groups: Application to Plural Subject Theory
Algesheimer, René; Bagozzi, Richard P.; Dholakia, Utpal M.
Sociological Methods & Research, v47 n2 p277-313 Mar 2018
We offer a new conceptualization and measurement models for constructs at the group-level of analysis in small group research. The conceptualization starts with classical notions of group behavior proposed by Tönnies, Simmel, and Weber and then draws upon plural subject theory by philosophers Gilbert and Tuomela to frame a new perspective applicable to many forms of small group behavior. In the proposed measurement model, a collective property is operationalized as shared interpersonal action that explicitly allows us to control for systematic (method) error and random error. Group members act as key informants of group properties and processes and are treated as methods in a multitrait multimethod setting to validate our models. The models are applied to data of 277 three-person groups to develop and illustrate new procedures for ascertaining variation in measures due to hypothesized construct(s), method error, and random error. Implications and guidelines for small group research are discussed.
Descriptors: Models, Groups, Group Behavior, Theories, Measurement Techniques, Multitrait Multimethod Techniques, Research Methodology, Error of Measurement, Social Science Research, Construct Validity, Predictive Validity
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
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