The Short Term Course on Scale Construction and Standardization Using SPSS and Jamovi was organized by the School of Education in collaboration with the Human Resource Development Center at Lovely Professional University. This course aimed to address advancements in scale validation, leveraging robust, standard, and free software tools that make it possible to apply complex statistical techniques to data and derive novel insights. Specifically, the STC focused on Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) using SPSS and Jamovi, exposing participants to the intricacies of this critical statistical technique for factor extraction. The inaugural session commenced with a warm welcome extended by Mr. Puneet Soni, Head-Department of Administrative Staff Development, Human Resource Development Center, Lovely Professional University. He welcomed the resource team and participants, provided an overview of the training protocols and setting the stage for an enriching learning experience.
Short Term Course on Scale Construction and Standardization using SPSS and Jamovi
Day 1: Dr. Vijay Kumar Chechi, Professor and Deputy Dean, School of Education, LPU focused on the conceptualization of constructs, dimensions, and psychological items, he discussed how to define constructs, identify dimensions, and create effective psychological items. He emphasized the importance of theoretical frameworks, clarity in item writing, and ensuring scale validity and reliability through methods like pilot testing and factor analysis. His interactive discussions and practical activities helped participants gain the skills to develop robust and reliable scales for research and educational purposes.
Day 1: Short Term Course on Scale Construction and Standardization using SPSS and Jamovi
Day 2: Dr. Rajib Chakraborty, Associate Professor at School of Education, LPU focused on the role of Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) in scale construction and adaptation. He introduced EFA’s foundational concepts, explaining its importance in identifying the underlying structure of variables and grouping items that measure similar constructs. Dr. Chakraborty highlighted how EFA enhances scale validity and reliability by refining items and ensuring they accurately capture the intended construct. Practical examples were shared to demonstrate EFA’s application in developing robust and effective measurement scales.
Day 2: Short Term Course on Scale Construction and Standardization using SPSS and Jamovi
Day 3: Dr. Chakraborty provided participants with hands-on experience in conducting Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) using SPSS statistical software. Practical demonstrations and exercises were conducted, allowing participants to apply the theoretical concepts they had learned on the previous day to real data scenarios. This approach helped participants to enhance their analytical skills, as they navigated through the software, examined factor loadings, and interpreted the results. By working with actual datasets, participants were able to gain deeper insights into the process of EFA and its application in research, further strengthening their understanding of scale construction and validation techniques.
Day 3: Short Term Course on Scale Construction and Standardization using SPSS and Jamovi
Day 4: Dr. Chakraborty emphasized the critical role of correlation, regression, item-total correlation, and reliability in the EFA process. He explained that correlation, specifically the inter-item correlation, helps to identify the strength and direction of relationships between items, which is fundamental for grouping them into factors. He demonstrated the use of regression techniques to estimate the factor scores, indicating the relationships between observed variables and the underlying latent factors. He discussed about scale reliability, often assessed using methods such as Cronbach’s alpha, ensures that the scale consistently measures the intended construct, reinforcing the validity of the factor structure identified in EFA. Together, these components ensure that the EFA is both meaningful and statistically sound, providing a solid foundation for scale development and analysis.
Day 4: Short Term Course on Scale Construction and Standardization using SPSS and Jamovi
Day 5: Dr. Chakraborty focused on Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) using JAMOVI Openware, introduced participants to the essential concepts and applications of EFA in scale development. He emphasized the importance of understanding the underlying structure of data and how EFA helps in identifying latent factors that explain correlations among observed variables. Through practical demonstrations, SME guided participants on how to perform EFA using JAMOVI, highlighting key steps such as data preparation, factor extraction, rotation, and determining the number of factors. He also elaborated on interpreting the results, including the factor loadings, eigenvalues, and explained variance, providing insights into how to assess the reliability and validity of the factors identified. The session was aimed at enhancing participants’ understanding of EFA and equipping them with the tools to apply it effectively in their research and scale construction.
Day 5: Short Term Course on Scale Construction and Standardization using SPSS and Jamovi
Day 6: The final day of the STC focused on consolidating the learning outcomes achieved over the previous program. Dr. Rajib emphasized the importance of reporting Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) results and offering best practices for documentation. Participants gained valuable insights into how to effectively present their findings for both academic and professional purposes, ensuring clarity and accuracy in their reports.
Following this, a post-training evaluation was conducted, which included a quiz and project presentations. These activities were designed to assess the participants’ understanding and application of the concepts covered during the course. The program provided an opportunity for participants to showcase their newly acquired skills in scale construction and factor analysis.
The course concluded with a valedictory session by program coordinator Mr. Puneet Soni, Head-Department of Administrative Staff Development, HRDC, LPU. During this program, key course outcomes were summarized, and individual participant contributions were recognized. The program successfully met its objectives, equipping participants with practical tools and theoretical knowledge to enhance their research in scale development and analysis.
Day 6: Short Term Course on Scale Construction and Standardization using SPSS and Jamovi
The program coordinator Mr. Puneet Soni, Head-Department of Administrative Staff Development, HRDC, LPU and Dr. Nimisha Beri, Professor, School of Education, LPU expressed heartfelt gratitude to the resource persons and the organizing team for delivering impactful Short Term Course on Scale Construction and Standardization using SPSS and Jamovi. They highlighted the course success in meeting participants’ expectations, emphasizing its thoughtful design and relevance.
Feedback from participants highlighted their appreciation for the thoughtful selection of subject matter experts and the well-structured curriculum. They noted that the course effectively clarified the concepts of Scale Construction and Standardization using SPSS and Jamovi. Additionally, participants emphasized that the skills acquired during the program would significantly enhance their abilities in this area. The structured approach ensured that they gained both conceptual knowledge and practical skills, equipping them to effectively implement these therapeutic techniques.
