Step Three: Statistical Analysis and Representation of Statements
Using the Concept System software (Trochim, 1989a), the card sort data from
each individual sort was recorded. All individual sort matrices were then added together to obtain a combined group similarity matrix. A non-metric multidimensional scaling (MDS) procedure was performed on the similarity matrix of the participants’ sorted items. A point map of the statements was thus produced. Hierarchical cluster analysis of the MDS similarity matrix was then used to group the sorted items into internally consistent clusters and a cluster map was constructed. Finally, the average ratings for each statement and cluster was computed and rating point and cluster maps were created. These maps formed the basis for further interpretation.