This class will provide a broad overview of quantitative methods and the focus will be on understanding terminology and concepts used by quantitative researchers. We’ll discuss some of the most commonly used statistical tests, outlining the types of research questions they address and the basic mechanics of the tests. T-test, correlation, chi-square test of independence and regression will be briefly explained. Along the way we’ll touch upon variables, level of analysis and the role of theory in quantitative methodology. This course is accessible to those without a math background as it focuses on providing a broad overview of quantitative methods concepts.
This class can help library staff who are planning to conduct quantitative research to show value, assess library services and student learning, and better serve communities.
Learning Outcomes
At the end of the session, participants should be able to:
Identify widely used statistical tests and accompanying research questions that those tests help to answer.
Develop vocabulary that will enhance communication about quantitative research and statistics.
Instructor: Cathryn Miller
Cathryn Miller is a Senior Data Analyst at the Medical College of Wisconsin. Her areas of specialization include social statistics, research methods and research data management. While working in positions at Duquesne University and The University of Wisconsin- Milwaukee, she taught lab sessions in statistics and developed workshops that focused on statistical software and statistical programming. As a Social Sciences Librarian at Duquesne University she worked with Dr. Marcia Rapchak to develop the Lyrasis Catalyst funded Quantitative Institute for Libraries.
