Definition

This involves identifying a portion of data to be archived, but not analyzed.  The researcher then conducts the data analysis on the remaining data and develops preliminary findings.  The researcher then returns to this archived data and analyzes it as a way to test the validity of his or her findings.

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Reference

Lincoln, YS. & Guba, EG. (1985). Naturalistic Inquiry. Newbury Park, CA: Sage Publications.