One-Day Workshop on Research Methods and Hands-on Excel Training for Data Analysis

The Institute for Inclusive Growth & Development (IIGD), Dharwad, in association with the Department of Economics and IQAC of Government First Grade College & PG Centre, Shikaripur, organized a one-day workshop on "Research Methods and Hands-on Excel Training for Data Analysis" on 30 June 2025.

The programme commenced with the inaugural session, which was compered by a PG student. Mr. Basavanna, Organising Secretary, welcomed the dignitaries and participants. The IQAC Coordinator addressed the gathering and emphasized the importance of research activities and the need for organizing such academic programmes. Dr. Balakrishna Bendre, IIGD, introduced the objectives and activities of IIGD and highlighted the significance of economic research in academic and policy-making processes. The Head of the Department of Economics spoke about the department’s commitment to promoting research culture among students. The Principal of the college presided over the function and, in his presidential remarks, encouraged students and faculty members to make effective use of such learning opportunities. The inaugural session concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Dr. Roopa G. K., Department of Kannada.

The first technical session was delivered by Mr. Buddha Dev Biswas on the topic "The Production of Knowledge: Research, Methodology, and the Social Sciences." He explained the concepts of research and methodology in social sciences through an informative PowerPoint presentation. The session provided participants with a sound understanding of the theoretical foundations of social science research.

The second technical session was conducted by Dr. Balakrishna Bendre, who delivered a lecture on "Steps in Conducting Economic Research." He elaborated on various stages of economic research, including problem identification, data collection, analysis, and report writing. The session was enriched with practical examples, making the research process clear and understandable for the participants.

Following the working lunch arranged by the college, a hands-on training session was conducted in the computer laboratory. The practical session was facilitated by Mr. Ramappa Savadatti and Mr. Shanmukh Hiremath. Using the Titanic dataset, Mr. Shanmukh Hiremath demonstrated the process of data management in Excel, including table creation, data summarization, and the use of Pivot Tables for cross-tabulation. The demonstration was projected on a digital display, enabling participants to follow the procedures effectively.

Participants were trained in preparing tables, generating charts and graphs, and interpreting the results. As part of the practical exercise, each participant was assigned the task of preparing a brief analysis based on the tables and graphs generated during the session. The students actively participated and completed the assignments with enthusiasm, reflecting their keen interest in learning data analysis techniques.

The workshop successfully achieved its objectives of enhancing research aptitude and developing practical data analysis skills among students and faculty members. The participants expressed their appreciation for the informative lectures and hands-on learning experience provided during the programme.