Statistical analysis is critical in enabling Higher Degree Research (HDR) scholars to effectively interpret and communicate their data coherently when presenting reports to fellow researchers within their field.
Recognising the significance of this skill, the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) administration team, in collaboration with The University of the South Pacific Research Office team, organised a refresher training session on the widely used statistical analysis tool, R Software, as part of the Research Office capacity-building initiative.
The Fiji Innovation Hub funded the training session under the Pacific Regional Innovation Network (PRIN) project, a joint venture between USP and UNDP. Aligned with the University’s 3rd strategic theme of Education, Culture, Health, and Well-being, this training aimed to provide in-service teacher training for HDR scholars to enhance their educational opportunities and outcomes.
The session last Wednesday (June 14, 2023) witnessed a substantial turnout of HDR scholars, including Post Graduate Diploma, Masters, and PhD students, who eagerly embraced this valuable opportunity.
Feedback received from scholars emphasised the importance of acquiring statistical analysis skills, particularly during the critical phase of data analysis. The participants expressed their gratitude to the organisers for the timely training and their desire for more dedicated training sessions explicitly tailored for HDR scholars in the future.
Dr Tamara Osborne-Naikatini from the School of Agriculture, Geography, Environment, Oceans, and Natural Sciences (SAGEON) expertly facilitated the training session.
Her guidance and expertise motivated numerous emerging researchers to recognise the significance of developing statistical analysis skills to advance research capabilities within the Pacific region.
Building upon the positive feedback received, the Research Office administration team is committed to collaborating with other interested parties to plan and implement further training sessions for all HDR scholars.
These efforts aim to enhance the overall quality of graduate outcomes and support the advancement of research within the institution.
Meanwhile, a follow-up training session is scheduled to take place on the 14th of next month to provide continued support and guidance to the HDR scholars.
