Area Goals

The Quantitative Methods faculty has seven core goals for students in the PhD specialization:

Goal 1: Prepare students to plan and execute research, as well as analyze and evaluate the research carried out by others.

Goal 2: Help students acquire knowledge and skill in using a wide variety of statistical techniques, which includes exposure to techniques that are at the forefront of the field.

Goal 3: Assist students in developing an understanding of the relationship between research design and data analysis, so that students are able to select research designs and analysis techniques that are appropriate for specific problems.

Goal 4: Help students develop quantitative problem solving skills so that they can serve as quantitative research consultants.

Goal 5: Help students develop the statistical, mathematical, and computing skills needed to conduct methodological research and contribute new methodological knowledge to the field.

Goal 6: Help students develop a high level of understanding of measurement principles and procedures so that they are able to develop and understand the proper use of measuring instruments appropriate for specific educational and psychological purposes and conduct applied psychometric research.

Goal 7: Encourage students to advance the field of quantitative research methodology through exemplary teaching, research, or professional practice, as well as participation and leadership in professional organizations.