Online Program

Saturday, October 22
Knowledge
Community
Influence
Sat, Oct 22, 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Salon 2
Speed Session 5

Pivoting from Novice to Expert: Statistical Consulting in the Sciences (303194)

*Emily Hohmeister Griffith, North Carolina State University 

Keywords: consulting, confidence, expertise

As a statistical consultant in the sciences who has a limited science background, I am regularly the statistical expert in a meeting while simultaneously being a complete novice regarding the scientific particulars. After participating in dozens of projects, I have learned to be comfortable in both roles. This presentation will discuss the two phases of a meeting to introduce a project to the statistical expert: learning and teaching. During the learning phase, statistical consultants need to understand the basics of the science and the goals of the project by asking a series of questions, listening actively, and learning the vocabulary of the specific field. During the teaching phase, statisticians need to be able to quickly identify the important parts of the science and pivot to authoritatively explaining statistical ideas and an analysis plan. Transitioning between the two phases can be difficult, particularly for women who are early in their careers. I will discuss techniques for making this transition easier.