Multiple Level Weighted Card Sorting

Abstract

Abstract. Mental models of domains may be hierarchical in nature and may include several levels of abstraction. In this article, initial emphasis is placed on reviewing past and current methods and practices in card sorting with respect to their suitability to capture such mental models. Then a new variant of card sorting is described that improves the collection and reconstruction of an individual’s semantic tree model of a domain. Thus, this variant allows sortings to be performed that use a truly free ordinal scale as well as an interval scale. The mathematical processes underlying the method are briefly described. Finally, practical examples of the new variant in card sorting are presented and the findings are discussed.