Question

Which of the following strategies are methods for addressing criticisms about external validity in small-N studies?

a. specify a limited population to generalize to
b. combine the results of single-n studies with those of other studies
c. check the operationalization of the variables
d. present the data in a graph
e. set up a comparison group

Answer 1

To address external validity in small-N studies, researchers can specify the population for generalization, use meta-analysis, and set up comparison groups.

Step-by-step explanation:

To address criticisms about external validity in small-N studies, researchers can use several methods:

• Specify a limited population to generalize to, thereby acknowledging that conclusions are not universal and are instead relevant to a specific group.
• Combine the results of single-N studies with those of other studies, also known as meta-analysis, to find common patterns and increase the generalizability of findings.
• Set up a comparison group, which can help distinguish between the effects of the intervention and other factors.

While checking the operationalization of the variables and presenting the data in a graph are important aspects of a study, they are not directly related to improving external validity.