NAEP Data Training Workshop

I really enjoyed this training. I'm grateful for the opportunity and experience. I learned so much and feel empowered to pursue research related to the NAEP assessment. Thanks again for such a well-organized and rigorous training session that challenged me to delve deep into the content.
I really enjoyed the workshop and I feel that I learned a ton of new things that will help me to run methodologically and statistically correct analysis by using large databases in the future. All the instructors were amazing, knowledgeable, friendly, and willing to spread their knowledge. I'll totally recommend the workshop to all my colleagues.
I had a wonderful time and I gained a lot of insight into the data. I am going home with a wealth of things to think about. Thank you.


The summer 2024 NAEP Data Training Workshop will take place on June 26–28, 2024, in Arlington, VA.

This workshop is for quantitative researchers with strong statistical skills who want to learn to conduct data analysis using NAEP data. The training is aimed at advanced graduate students, educational researchers at universities or other research organizations, analysts from state and local education agencies, and those interested in analyzing large-scale assessment data. The training will introduce the unique design features of NAEP and provide guidance and practice in the data analysis strategies required when using NAEP data. It will feature hands-on practice in analyzing NAEP data files using the R program.

During the training, participants will:

  • get an overview of NAEP operations, from framework and item development to reporting and dissemination;
  • be introduced to the NAEP psychometric models;
  • learn about plausible values and complex sample design, including weights and how to use them in analysis;
  • be introduced to the Monthly School Survey Linking Study (MSSLS) and COVID Data Hub data collections;
  • receive instruction on how to use the NAEP Data Explorer and EdSurvey (an R statistical package);
  • conduct and share statistical analysis projects using NAEP or MSSLS data; and
  • learn about the challenges facing NAEP and opportunities in NAEP operations and research.

A draft agenda for the 2024 data training can be found here.

Financial Support

There is no fee to attend. The National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) will provide the training materials, computers, software, and data for the hands-on training. NCES will also pay for transportation to Arlington, VA,1 three nights of hotel accommodations, and a fixed per diem for meals and incidental expenses during the training. Accepted applicants are expected to be on time and to attend all sessions; financial support will be dependent on their attending and completing the training.

Please note that individuals employed by a holder of a prime contract or subcontract under the Procurement of Research Evaluation and Statistics Task Orders (PRESTO) or NAEP Alliance are ineligible to receive lodging, travel, or per diem reimbursement for this workshop.

1 For international applicants only, financial support for transportation is capped at $500.

Application Process

Qualifications

Applicants should have a solid understanding of basic statistics and some topics in advanced statistics, such as the procedures used to analyze complex survey data. They should have some familiarity with measurement theory, including item response theory. Please note that R will be used during training activities, so participants are expected to have a basic knowledge of using R to perform statistical analysis.

COVID-19 Protocols and Requirements

In order to uphold the health and safety of all participants, it is recommended that individuals perform a thorough self-assessment of their health before attending the training. Those who are feeling unwell or have been in close contact with individuals displaying symptoms are strongly encouraged to prioritize their well-being by refraining from attending. Furthermore, participants are expected to adhere diligently to proper respiratory etiquette, including covering one's mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing. Although the wearing of masks is now optional, it is advisable, especially in situations involving close proximity or for individual comfort.

Timeline

The application period closes May 12, 2024.

Notifications to accepted applicants will be sent no later than May 24, 2024.

Application

Applications for the data training workshop are currently closed.

Evaluation

Applicants will be evaluated on the following criteria:

  • Alignment of applicant research interests and NAEP goals (applicants are encouraged to explore the NAEP Research Resources website prior to developing their area of research interest statement)
  • Potential for both applicants and NAEP to benefit from applicant’s participation
  • Applicant knowledge and skills in statistical analyses, including familiarity with R