Converting Data to Information

Know your data Know your audience Tell a story

Know Your Data Construct simple frequency distribution for every variable Examine data distribution Identify meaningful indicator to summarize N = number % = percentage Mean

Know Your Data Examine indicator for patterns across subgroups within your sample Sex Race/Ethnicity Class level College of Enrollment Program participation/Non-participation

Converting Data to Information - Examples

The Extent to Which 35 Abilities and Skills Were Enhanced by the Undergraduate Program (N=1775 Alumni) Exercise personal responsibility Maintain openness to new ideas Think analytically & logically Function independently Learn how to learn Exercise self-discipline Acquire new skills & knowledge Adapt to social situations Listen effectively Understand myself Exercise problem solving skills Write effectively Possess clear goals Speak effectively Carry out research Relate to people of different races Know literature of recognized merit Percent responding 4 or 5(high) on a 5 point scale Percent responding 1 or 2(low) on a 5 point scale Average Response (Scale of 1 to 5)

The Extent to Which 35 Abilities and Skills Were Enhanced by the Undergraduate Program (N=1775 Alumni) Evaluate and choose among alternatives Understand cultural differences Be effective team member Produce scholarship Analyze literature critically Understand scientific findings Cope with conflict Appreciate artistic expression Use statistics Understand math concepts Take moral & ethical action Employ scientific methods Lead and supervise others Solve math problems Analyze scientific data Use foreign language skills Utilize computing skills Place problems in historical perspective Average Response (Scale of 1 to 5) Percent responding 4 or 5(high) on a 5 point scale Percent responding 1 or 2(low) on a 5 point scale

Know Your Data Small Group Exercise