Construction of Variables

This chapter examines the sample of knowledge-sharing events and shows the basis for the construction of the variables; an analysis of responses is conducted and independent, dependent, and contextual variables are reviewed. This examination not only presents the data but also arranges it in such a manner that it is more readily usable for logistic regression and testing of hypotheses (chapter 6). This systematic review of the data provides informative findings. While most findings confirm existing beliefs, some nuances are presented including areas for further exploration of the data (figure 4.1). Variable construction is based on (1) considerations of measurement and (2) construct validity. In particular, factor analysis is used to screen data for subsequent analysis rather than to develop hypotheses. Correlation tables generate evidence of linear relationships. Cronbach alphas measure reliability (i.e., how well questions coalesce).