Evidence of validation in a strategy development model structure in public health schools

Background Scientific investigations utilizing the questionnaire methodology for data acquisition mandate a rigorous validation process for their research instruments. This imperative arises from the need to mitigate biases and uphold impartiality in the derived results. Regrettably, a lack of awareness persists among researchers regarding this pivotal requirement within the methodological framework. Although comprehensive validation typically unfolds across multiple stages, the present study is dedicated exclusively to the structural validation phase. Methods A questionnaire with 18 closed questions (observable variables) was administered across 12 units in different regions of Brazil. Data were classified according to a Likert scale, which ranges from 1 to 5, representing the participants’ degree of agreement in relation to 8 characteristics proposed for the model (latent variables). The research involved 75 participants who answered the research instrument between March and August 2023. To define the structure of the model, the data were subjected to an exploratory factor analysis, with the support of the Factor Analysis software. Results Findings suggested a structure was organized into two factors, called internal and external factors, according to the degree of governability that the SPH has in relation to the proposed items. Conclusion The validation evidence indicates a structure composed of two factors for the better organization of the items of a strategy development model in Schools of Public Health, in Brazil.