Yogyakarta - Research methodology plays a key role in the execution and completion of a research process. A high-quality research project should commence with a robust, accurate, precise, and consistent methodology to ensure the reliability of the obtained information. In research methodology, two types of methods are recognized: qualitative and quantitative. These methods are integral to the transformation of data into meaningful information.

This involves the examination and modeling of data to ensure that it is comprehensible, valuable, and reliable.
Software for data analysis is currently available, facilitating the process of deriving useful information from data. This software is instrumental in completing final assignments and conducting high-quality research for scientists, researchers, and students.

The significance of research methodology is widely recognized, particularly in the creation of scientific works and the completion of final assignments within the Islamic Accounting study program, UIN Sunan Kalijaga. In 2021, a “Training on Research Methodology and Application of Eviews and SmartPLS Software” was conducted on Wednesday-Thursday, June 23-24, 2021, using the Zoom Meeting Virtual platform. This virtual training aimed to enhance the competence of final year students and those engaged in research within the Islamic Accounting study program, with a total of 120 participants.

“Deepening the understanding and skills in using data analysis software such as Eviews and SmartPLS well, including in conducting research and final assignments, is very necessary for students, and the training conducted this time is highly beneficial,” said Dr. Afdawaiza, S.Ag., M.Ag. (Dean of FEBI UIN Sunan Kalijaga).

On the first day, the event commenced at 13:00 WIB with an opening address by the dean of FEBI, Dr. Afdawaiza, S.Ag., M.Ag. The session featured Mr. Agus Widarjono, M.A., Ph.D., a lecturer in the Department of Economics at the Islamic University of Indonesia and the author of the book “Econometrics and Statistics,” as the speaker. The presentation, moderated by Ms. Dinik Fitri Rahajeng Pangestuti, SE., M.Ak., covered multivariate analysis, grouped into three categories: dependent techniques, interdependent techniques, and structural models. Furthermore, the session included discussions on regression analysis and structural equation modeling (SEM).

On the second day, the event commenced at 08:30 WIB and concluded at 13:00 WIB. Ms. Dwi Marlina Wijayanti, S.Pd., M.Sc., moderated the session, focusing on training in operating Eviews and SmartPLS software. The training involved practical exercises using sample data cases, enabling students to grasp the software’s operations and functions more effectively.

“Despite being conducted online and having limitations, this activity serves as an initial step in fostering research development using Eviews software for all academic members of the Islamic Accounting Study Program, particularly for students preparing their final assignments,” said Alif Khuwarazmi, a student of the Islamic Accounting study program, class of 2017.

After engaging in these activities over the past two days, it is expected that the participants of the 2021 student competence improvement program have gained a thorough understanding of research principles and are proficient in utilizing analytical tools like Eviews and SmartPLS software. This knowledge will enable them to easily apply these skills in practical scenarios, such as preparing research proposals, completing final assignments, and other related tasks.

(Muhammad Wahfudin)