A Quasi-Experiment on the Effectiveness of Statistical Software Training Program in Developing Students’ Data Analysis Skills in Practical Research II

Statistical software has significantly enhanced data analysis, providing students with the precision and depth needed to extract meaningful insights from complex datasets. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a statistical software training program in enhancing students’ data analysis skills within a Practical Research II subject. A quasi-experiment, pre-test/post-test design was employed to assess the effect of the training on a sample of ninety STEM students. The results of the study revealed a significant improvement in students’ data analysis skills. The pre-test scores indicated a beginning level of proficiency, while the post-test scores demonstrated an approaching proficiency level. This significant difference, with a large effect size of 2.30, underscores the effectiveness of the training program in enhancing students’ data analysis capabilities. Results revealed empirical evidence that the statistical software training program on the use of Data Analysis, a statistical software application embedded in Microsoft Excel significantly influences students’ proficiency level as evidenced by comparing the pretest and posttest scores. By providing hands-on experience with this tool, students were able to develop their skills in statistical data analysis. The training also covered a range of statistical techniques, including descriptive and inferential statistics. The findings of this study highlight the importance of providing targeted training to enhance students’ data analysis skills. By equipping students with the necessary tools and knowledge, teachers can empower them to conduct rigorous research and contribute meaningfully to academic and professional fields.