59.010 - Designing Adequately Powered Group Randomized Trials: A Hands-On Workshop Using Optimal Design Plus

Session Type: Professional Development Course

Abstract

The purpose of this workshop is to teach researchers and evaluators how to plan adequately powered group randomized trials (GRTs). In addition to providing the rationale and statistical framework for calculating the statistical power, we will teach participants how to use the Optimal Design Plus (OD+) Software. We will introduce participants to the data repository within OD Plus which stores design parameters for conducting power analyses for reading, math, science, and social/emotional outcomes. Design parameters are also available for teacher level outcomes. The workshop will combine lecture sessions with hands-on practice. The target audience includes researchers interested in planning and conducting group randomized trials. Participants should be familiar with basic research design concepts. In order to facilitate hands-on aspect of the workshop, participants are required bring a laptop to the session with the Optimal Design Plus software (http://wtgrantfoundation.org/FocusAreas#tools-for-group-randomized-trials).

Sub Unit

• Professional Development and Training Committee

Instructors

• Joseph Taylor, Abt Associates Inc.

• Benjamin Kelcey, University of Cincinnati

• Jessaca K. Spybrook, Western Michigan University