Secondary analysis of large-scale survey datasets

NatCen Learning

This course will provide an overview of the process of designing and carrying out secondary analysis of large-scale survey datasets.  Participants will be taught the key stages of a secondary analysis research project - from developing research questions, through planning and undertaking data analysis, to strategies for disseminating findings.   The course will include lecture-type sessions and interactive learning using real-life examples from a recent project the presenters have worked on.  Note: the course will not include hands-on training of SPSS or any other statistical package.  Please see the NCRM website for relevant courses for those wishing to learn more about statistical software and techniques.


Course outline
Course content covers:

  • An outline of the stages involved in conducting a piece of secondary data analysis
  • Formulating a research question
  • Conceptualising the issues
  • Identifying suitable data
  • Operationalising measures with your data
  • Techniques of data analysis
  • Interpretation and presentation of data
  • Methods of reporting
  • Project management


Who is it aimed at?
This course is aimed at those with little or no experience of secondary data analysis who want a succinct overview of the research process.  It is suitable for a range of participants, including those wishing to plan a secondary analysis project or proposal, those in the early stages of an analytical research career, qualitative researchers who want an awareness of quantitative research and managers of secondary analysis research projects.


Learning outcomes
By the end of the course participants will:

  • demonstrate awareness of the appropriate use of secondary analysis
  • understand the stages involved in conducting a thorough piece of analysis
  • formulate research questions appropriate for analysis
  • identify and access a range of large-scale data sets available to the social researcher
  • critically evaluate data sources and assess their appropriateness for a given research question
  • have an overview of how data can be manipulated and managed in preparation of analysis
  • be aware of a range of statistical techniques available for the exploratory analysis of survey data
  • understand how to present analytical findings
  • be familiar with a range of ways to write up and disseminate analytical findings
  • understand how to plan, timetable and budget for a secondary analysis project
  • evaluate the relative strengths and weaknesses of data analysis


Cost and booking
The full price of this course is £350.

We offer discounts to students, academics and those working in the voluntary sector.