SPSS Hands-on: Data Analysis for Research and Publication Workshop

Abstract

This workshop will focus on the various ways SPSS can be used in research. It will discuss the common statistical analyses and the appropriate use of these analyses to answer research questions and test hypotheses. Using hands-on exercises, participants will learn how SPSS can be used to screen and explore data, test for normality and equality of variance and execute basic commands. Following this, inferential data analyses including parametric tests such as Pearson Product Moment correlation, t-tests and One-way and Three-way ANOVA, ANCOVA as well as linear regression with moderation and mediation analysis. Non-parametric tests such as Chi-square, Mann-Whitney and Wilcoxon, Friedman’s ANOVA and Kruskall-Wallis will be also be covered. Discussions and hands-on exercises will include using SPSS to ascertain the reliabilities (Item Analysis, Split-Half, Kuder-Richardson, and Cronbach Alpha) and the various indices of validity of instruments. The workshop will also help participants to interpret correctly the SPSS output of these inferential data analyses, tabulate and report the results in the format acceptable for publication in refereed Web of Science / ISI indexed journals.

Learning Outcomes

At the end of the 2-day workshop, participants will be able to:

• enter data in SPSS and carry out data screening.
• employ the right data analyses based on the scale of measurement of the variables.
• carry out descriptive data analyses and appropriate inferential data analyses and test for mediation and moderation.
• employ the right statistical analyses to answer the research questions formulated.
• report all results using the appropriate format for refereed / ISI-indexed journals.