Building a Strong Foundation: Selecting the Right Statistical Analysis and Methods

Abstract

Are you looking to enhance your statistical and evaluative methodologies for specific library services and resources? Do you want to learn how to effectively use data and other evaluative measures to support and make operational decisions? Look no further than this informative workshop, led by an assessment coordinator in a renowned research university library in the U.S. During the workshop, the presenter will draw upon her extensive experience and expertise to guide participants through various examples of her own assessment projects and provide tips on how to select appropriate methods and analyses. She will also share her views on the importance of independent assessments for evaluating library programs and services and supporting evidence-based decision-making for the success of students and faculty. The presenter, whose assessment projects have already been published in national and international journals, will use these examples to highlight the goals, statistical analysis and methods used, and other relevant references of each project, enabling participants to gain a comprehensive understanding of the topic. Additionally, throughout the workshop, the presenter will actively engage with participants by discussing their experiences when involved in statistical analysis and methods for their projects. By the end of the workshop, participants will have gained practical skills and insights that they can apply in their own work through real-life examples shared by the presenter. They will have a unique opportunity to expand their knowledge and improve their library practices. The goal of this workshop is to help participants improve their statistical and evaluative methodologies for specific library services and resources. Additionally, the workshop aims to teach participants how to effectively use data and other evaluative measures to support and make operational decisions, and to advocate the importance of independent assessments for evaluating library programs and services. By the end of the workshop, participants should have gained practical skills and insights that they can apply in their own work.

A presentation at the "Demystifying Statistics and Evaluation in Libraries" Satellite Meeting, organised by the Statistics and Evaluation Section and held at the University of Utrecht in Utrecht, The Netherlands from 17–18 August 2023.