Final answer:
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.