What’s your name?
My name is Kelvin Tosin Afolabi.
What’s your year and department?
I am a fourth-year Ph.D. in research, statistics, and evaluation student in the Education Leadership, Foundations, and Policy (EDLF) department at the University of Virginia.
What’s your hometown?
I am Yoruba, originally from Lagos, Nigeria, but I’ve found a second home here in Charlottesville.
How are you connected to TYDE?
My connection to Thriving Youth in a Digital Environment (TYDE) came through a grand challenge training award, which allowed me to participate in an advanced Bayesian statistical modeling course taught by Dr. Roy Levy at the University of Maryland. It was a great opportunity to deepen my understanding of these complex analytical techniques.
What is your research about? What parts of it are the most exciting to you?
My research focuses on contemporary approaches to latent variable models, with a particular emphasis on measurement invariance. This analytical approach ensures that measurement tools consistently capture the same constructs across different groups and periods. I’m also exploring innovative methods for modeling multidimensional constructs using exploratory structural equation modeling. Additionally, I’m working to extend the boundaries of multilevel modeling through Bayesian approaches, specifically focusing on reflective level 2 variables. I’m particularly excited about how the outcome of this work could enhance our understanding of micro-macro situational analyses.
How do you use digital technology in your daily life?
In my daily life, digital technology plays a crucial role. I rely heavily on statistical software like R and Mplus for my analyses, reference management tools like Zotero or Mendeley for organizing research materials, and collaboration platforms such as Google Docs for working with colleagues. To stay current in my field, I frequently tune into statistics and methodology podcasts. Quantitude, hosted by Greg Hancock and Patrick Curran, and Within and Between, by Jessica Logan and Sara Hart, are among my favorites. These podcasts offer insightful discussions on advanced statistical concepts and their practical applications.
The academic Twitter community has also been an invaluable resource. It’s a great platform for staying updated on the latest developments in statistics and methodology, engaging in discussions with other researchers, and discovering new resources. The #AcademicTwitter and #rstats hashtags are particularly active and informative.
Are there any online trends or influencers you think are particularly innovative?
As for online trends, I’ve noticed an increasing number of academics and data scientists using platforms like YouTube to make complex statistical concepts more accessible. Channels dedicated to explaining advanced statistical methods and showcasing new analytical approaches have been gaining popularity. These resources complement traditional learning methods and offer fresh perspectives on challenging topics in our field.
