# Designing an Analytical Study Course (Self-Paced)

Canonical URL: <https://www.graduateschool.edu/courses/designing-an-analytical-study-course-self-paced>

## Overview

Participants in this interactive course apply a proven, systematic method to plan and design an analytical study. Classroom exercises and deliverables include developing research questions, designing data collection instruments, scheduling key milestones, and more.

## What you'll learn

- Develop a plan to conduct an analytical study.
- Describe the major steps in an analytical study.
- Evaluate methods to collect and analyze data.
- Develop data collection instruments.
- Identify project milestones for an analytical study.

## Prerequisites

Students should have prior experience in federal program management or analysis, familiarity with project or program performance monitoring, and a basic understanding of compliance requirements.

## Curriculum

**Module 1: The Role of a Management Analyst**

- Define the responsibilities and functions of a management analyst.
- Understand how analytical studies support decision-making and organizational improvement.
- Recognize the skills and competencies required for effective analysis.

**Module 2: Steps in an Analytical Study**

- Identify the phases of conducting an analytical study from planning to reporting.
- Understand the iterative nature of analysis and the need for flexibility.
- Link each study step to its role in producing reliable and actionable results.

**Module 3: Understanding the Management Situation and Concern (Step 1)**

- Clarify the context and background of the issue to be studied.
- Identify stakeholders and their perspectives on the concern.
- Establish the scope and objectives of the analysis.

**Module 4: Identifying Research Questions (Step 2)**

- Formulate clear and focused research questions to guide the study.
- Ensure research questions are aligned with organizational priorities and needs.
- Differentiate between primary and secondary research questions.

**Module 5: Identifying Data Sources for the Research Questions (Step 2)**

- Identify available data sources relevant to each research question.
- Evaluate data sources for reliability, validity, and accessibility.
- Determine if additional data collection will be necessary.

**Module 6: Developing a Project Plan (Step 3)**

- Outline the activities, timeline, and resources needed for the study.
- Assign responsibilities and create a clear workflow.
- Incorporate risk management and contingency planning into the project plan.

**Module 7: The NIDA Case Study and Project Plan (Steps 1, 2, 3)**

- Apply initial analytical study steps to a real-world case example.
- Develop a project plan based on identified concerns, questions, and data sources.
- Demonstrate integration of planning steps in a cohesive framework.

**Module 8: Planning to Use Available Databases and Archived Documents (Step 4)**

- Identify and assess existing databases and documents for relevant data.
- Plan methods for extracting and organizing data from secondary sources.
- Address issues of data completeness and accuracy in existing records.

**Module 9: Planning to Use Workplace Observation (Step 4)**

- Design an observation plan tailored to the research questions.
- Determine observation criteria and recording methods.
- Minimize bias and disruption during the observation process.

**Module 10: Planning to Interview (Step 4)**

- Develop interview protocols and question guides.
- Select and recruit participants for interviews.
- Ensure ethical considerations and data confidentiality.

**Module 11: Planning a Questionnaire Survey (Step 4)**

- Design effective survey questions to elicit relevant data.
- Plan sampling strategies and distribution methods.
- Address potential response bias and increase participation rates.

## Pricing

**Tuition:** $1249