How the Tutorial Works

The tutorial is composed of 16 modules, which are grouped into four courses.  The tutorial was designed so that each module is free-standing—you can start anywhere and move around as you wish. However, you should be aware that later modules build on previous ones, and a greater level of statistical and epidemiologic knowledge is assumed for later modules.

All of the modules in this tutorial start in a full-screen window that shows the major tasks that will be covered.   Under each Task are several links to pop-up windows.   

• The "Key Concepts" link has more information about the task, including NHANES specific information and caveats to consider. 
• The "How to" link provides steps for completing the task and may include demonstrations of the steps.
• The "Download Sample Code and Output" link takes you to a page where you can download the code and output used in the module.

Screenshot of Module Facepage

 

It is important to note that the style of some of the tasks differs from the style of other tasks, depending on the type of information that is provided.  Some tasks only have a "Key Concepts" link, whereas others have all three links mentioned above.  Additionally, some of the early modules have tasks that require you to navigate the NHANES website and are interactive.  Others provide SAS and SUDAAN programs with explanations needed for completing the task. 

When you are asked to navigate the NHANES website in a "How to" link, you will see the live NCHS website on the right side of the screen and directions for completing the task on the left, as shown in the screenshot below.  To print the instructions, use the "Print Text!" button.

Screenshot of "Navigate" type Task

Embedded in the "How to" instructions are links that say "View demonstration ..."  These animations were created for those who need additional help completing a step. Clicking this link will open a pop-up window.  In this window, you will see a narrated video demonstration of the step. If you choose not to view the demonstration, you can bypass the animation and complete the tasks on your own using the instructions provided. For more information on using the demonstrations, see the demonstrations section of this document.

Screenshot of Demonstration Link

Demonstrations

Adobe Flash player is required for viewing the demonstrations that show how to complete a task. See the Flash player section of Technical and Software Requirements for information on installing the Flash player. To view a demonstration, click the designated link.  The animation will open in a pop-up window and start playing. The slides are timed and will advance automatically. If you wish to skip or repeat a slide, use the playback controls described in the next paragraph.

Screenshot of Playback Controls on Demonstration

Playback controls are at the top of the animation:
  Narration On/Click to turn narration on or off
  Restart
 Back
  Play
  Fast Forward