Exploratory Factor Analysis: A Five-Step Guide for Novices

TLDR

Factor analysis is a multivariate statistical technique widely used in psychology, education, and health professions to develop, refine, and evaluate tests, scales, and measures, and is increasingly relevant for paramedic education and clinical practice. The paper aims to give novice researchers a simplified, empirically supported protocol for conducting exploratory factor analysis. The authors present a systematic, empirically supported EFA protocol that streamlines the numerous guidelines and options involved in performing exploratory factor analysis.

Abstract

Factor analysis is a multivariate statistical approach commonly used in psychology, education, and more recently in the health-related professions. This paper will attempt to provide novice researchers with a simplified approach to undertaking exploratory factor analysis (EFA). As the paramedic body of knowledge continues to grow, indeed into scale and instrument psychometrics, it is timely that an uncomplicated article such as this be offered to the paramedic readership both nationally and internationally. Factor analysis is an important tool that can be used in the development, refinement, and evaluation of tests, scales, and measures that can be used in education and clinical contexts by paramedics. The objective of the paper is to provide an exploratory factor analysis protocol, offering potential researchers with an empirically-supported systematic approach that simplifies the many guidelines and options associated with completing EFA.