Lecture 7: Process Tracing

Question 1

Authenticity

Answer 1

accurate reading and genuine interpretation of reality

Question 2

Portability

Answer 2

Contribution to knowledge accumulation

Question 3

Precision

Answer 3

Transparency in the way analyses are conducted

Question 4

Impartiality

Answer 4

Concerns regarding reseacher biases

Question 5

Three variants of process tracing

Answer 5

Theory-testing process tracing
Theory-building process tracing
Explaining-outcome process tracing

Question 6

How to assure the trustworthiness of qualitative reseach?

Answer 6

Triangulation, build on peer-reviewed work, provide an appendix, a good description

Question 7

Process tracing methods

Answer 7

Tools to study causal mechanisms in a single-case design

Question 8

Coleman’s Bathtub

Answer 8

Micro-level action is linked to micro-level structures and vice versa

Question 9

Causal inference tests for process tracing

Answer 9

Straw in the wind test: Low uniqueness, low certainty
Hoop test: High certainty, necassary to confirm hypothesis
Smoking gun: high uniqueness: sufficient to confirm hypothesis
Double decisive test: high certainty, high uniqueness