Goal
Implement, the FOCUS algorithm, a two-way hierarchical clustering procedure for repertory grids that reorders constructs and elements so that the most similar items appear next to each other, producing a focused grid and tree diagrams (Shaw & Thomas, 1978; Jankowicz & Thomas, 1982). It works by comparing pairs of elements and constructs using summed rating differences and then iteratively linking the closest pairs; for constructs, reversed forms are also checked because bipolar constructs may match in opposite directions (Jankowicz & Thomas, 1982). A main feature of FOCUS is that it is based on the pattern of ratings rather than just the verbal labels, making repertory grids easier to interpret visually (Shaw & Thomas, 1978).
Literature
Shaw, M. L. G., & Thomas, L. F. (1978). FOCUS on education—An interactive computer system for the development and analysis of repertory grids. International Journal of Man-Machine Studies, 10, 139–173.
Jankowicz, D., & Thomas, L. (1982). An algorithm for the cluster analysis of repertory grids in human resource development. Personnel Review, 11(4), 15–22.
Goal
Implement, the FOCUS algorithm, a two-way hierarchical clustering procedure for repertory grids that reorders constructs and elements so that the most similar items appear next to each other, producing a focused grid and tree diagrams (Shaw & Thomas, 1978; Jankowicz & Thomas, 1982). It works by comparing pairs of elements and constructs using summed rating differences and then iteratively linking the closest pairs; for constructs, reversed forms are also checked because bipolar constructs may match in opposite directions (Jankowicz & Thomas, 1982). A main feature of FOCUS is that it is based on the pattern of ratings rather than just the verbal labels, making repertory grids easier to interpret visually (Shaw & Thomas, 1978).
Literature
Shaw, M. L. G., & Thomas, L. F. (1978). FOCUS on education—An interactive computer system for the development and analysis of repertory grids. International Journal of Man-Machine Studies, 10, 139–173.
Jankowicz, D., & Thomas, L. (1982). An algorithm for the cluster analysis of repertory grids in human resource development. Personnel Review, 11(4), 15–22.