CHAPTER 6 Confirm Phase

Introduction

What is Confirmation? Confirmation is the investigation of the theory, in operation, to determine its accuracy.

Inputs to Confirming Theories A set of concepts Relationships specified Measurement criteria specified An instance in which to study the theory in action ……. in a word, it is: Research!

Approaches to Confirming Theories Quantitative Qualitative Mixed Methods

The Confirm Phase of Theory Building

Outputs of the Confirm Phase A judgment about the accuracy and adequacy of the theory. Multiple instances of evidence (at least two) to support the judgment. Interpretation of what the judgment about the theory means for using it in practice.

Quality Indicators for the Confirm Phase Comprehensiveness – The complete theory and all of its relationships are studied. Empirical Validity – Experiments support the theory or show where it is lacking. Practicality – The utility of the theory for practitioners trying to solve the same or or similar problems.

Conclusion The Confirm Phase requires the investigation of the theory and enough evidence to make sound judgments about its accuracy and utility. This can take years to complete – usually it results in modifications to increase the fit and utility of the theory.