Statistics training serves local nonprofits
Business statistics students are getting real world experience by helping local nonprofit agencies collect and analyze data about volunteers, fundraising and services.
The information students provide helps the nonprofits improve operations, while the students gain experience that illustrates the theories they learn in class.
The University’s Bonner Center for Civic Engagement works with Dr. Andy Litteral, associate professor of management, to identify area agencies that can use the assistance.
During the first several weeks of Litteral’s course, each group of six or seven students meets with the staff of its assigned nonprofit to learn about the organization and gather information for statistical analyses.
Litteral says the work provides an enhanced academic experience for his students.
“It gives them a chance to do well in a group project and be successful in the course,” he says. “Not all students do well on tests.” Most assignments require deep data analysis, interpretation of results and recommendations based on the data.
“They are providing real information of value to these organizations,” Litteral says.
Last semester, one group worked with Henrico County’s Court-Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) to develop the basis for a five-year strategic plan. The group analyzed data collected from 2002–07 about grants, volunteers, children served and open cases in the county, state and country.
Another group helped the Richmond Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) create a more user-friendly Web site for online donations and volunteer sign-up by interpreting the results of a June 2007 survey.
Students learn more than just business statistics while working on these projects, Litteral says.
“They are required to write reports and make class presentations,” he says. “And, they learn group dynamics, which is important at every level of business.”
During the spring semester, students are working for the Hispanic Liaison Office, the Richmond Health District and Meals on Wheels.