ISSR Methodology Workshop | Introduction to Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA)

Please note this event occurred in the past.
February 21, 2025 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm ET
Research Methodology,
Semester Workshops
Workshop Registration Workshop Registration
Online Event - Login credentials via email for registered participants

This workshop is full. Please contact the instructor Richard Liu at gliu@umass.edu to be placed on the waitlist.

Instructor: Richard Liu

This workshop focuses on Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA), a statistical technique commonly used to test hypotheses or theories about the structure of unobserved (or latent) variables based on observed data. Unlike Exploratory Factor Analysis, CFA is used when you have a clear theory or model that you wish to validate. Participants will learn how to specify and test a CFA model using R, interpret key output such as fit indices, factor loadings, and understand the practical implications of their analysis. No prior experience with R is required, this workshop is designed to be accessible to those new to the software.

Learning Objectives

  1. Understand the conceptual framework and assumptions underlying CFA.
  2. Learn to specify and estimate a CFA model in R, including model fit assessment and modification indices.
  3. Interpret the output from a CFA, including fit indices, factor loadings, and model modification suggestions.
  4. Explore the differences between EFA and CFA and when to use each technique.
  5. Engage in hands-on practice by running a CFA on a dataset, interpreting results, and making model adjustments as necessary.