03. The Association of Religion Data Archives, The Association of Religion Data Archives

• In Event: 265 - Research Funding Opportunities and Data Resources (part of the Research Support Forum)

Abstract

The Association of Religion Data Archives (ARDA) provides free access to the highest quality data on religion. The ARDA allows you to interactively explore American and international data using online features for generating national profiles, maps, church membership overviews, GIS mapping, QuickStats, QuickLists, denominational heritage trees, tables, charts, and other summary reports. Nearly 900 data files are available for online preview (including multiple years of the General Social Survey) and virtually all can be downloaded free of charge. The Learning Center was recently expanded and now includes detailed lesson plans for instructors, new Learning Modules for students, YouTube videos of different religious groups, an expanded dictionary of religious and statistical terms, guidelines for observing religious groups, and other interactive online tools. Housed in the Social Science Research Institute at the Pennsylvania State University, the ARDA is funded by the Lilly Endowment, the John Templeton Foundation, the Pennsylvania State University, and Chapman University.

Authors

• Roger Finke, Pennsylvania State University

• Jose Luis Debora, Pennsylvania State University

• Nathaniel Porter, Pennsylvania State University