Quantitative: Keep Track of your Analysis
Topic 3: Data Analysis
Topic 3: Data Analysis
During your analysis, you might consider keeping a Data Analysis Log which allows you to keep track of the analytic decisions you have made. In the course of analysis, you may combine variables, exclude participants from your dataset because of missing data, and make other important decisions. The data analysis log should include a clear description of your analytic decisions as well as your rationale behind them. A data analysis log is particularly helpful when conducting analysis over an extended period of time to avoid running the same analysis repeatedly. Most importantly, you will draw from the data analysis log when writing the methods section and explaining your methodology so that others can replicate your findings with the same dataset.
If you are using SPSS to analyze your data, you should consider saving a syntax file that includes everything you have done with your data set (e.g., recodes, transformations, computations, analysis techniques, etc.). The syntax file can serve as an important record of all your choices.
A psychometric analysis (e.g., reliability, factor analysis) may need to be conducted before you construct any scales or subscales using survey or test data. Consult with your Dissertation Chair or a Dissertation Support Center Fellow regarding the validation of any measurement tools.
For more information on specific analysis techniques, consult the following resources:
After completing your analysis, go back to your Chapter 3 and make sure your methods are consistent with the analysis you ultimately conducted.
If you are using SPSS to analyze your data, you should consider saving a syntax file that includes everything you have done with your data set (e.g., recodes, transformations, computations, analysis techniques, etc.). The syntax file can serve as an important record of all your choices.
A psychometric analysis (e.g., reliability, factor analysis) may need to be conducted before you construct any scales or subscales using survey or test data. Consult with your Dissertation Chair or a Dissertation Support Center Fellow regarding the validation of any measurement tools.
For more information on specific analysis techniques, consult the following resources:
- StatSoft’s Electronic Statistics Handbook: http://www.statsoft.com/textbook
- Pallant, J. (2013). SPSS survival manual (5th ed.). London: Open University Press.
- The Dissertation Support Center Fellows
After completing your analysis, go back to your Chapter 3 and make sure your methods are consistent with the analysis you ultimately conducted.
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