Units of Analysis: The Basics

One of the first steps in a reference interview is determining what is it the user really wants or needs. In many cases, the question comes down to the unit of analysis: what is it that is being investigated or researched? This presentation will take us through the concept of the unit of analysis so that we can improve our reference service — and make our lives easier as a result! Note: This presentation precedes Working with Complex Surveys: Canadian Travel Survey by Chuck Humphrey (14-Mar-2002).

参考咨询面谈的首要步骤之一，便是明确用户的真实诉求与所需信息。多数情况下，核心问题最终都会落脚到分析单元（unit of analysis）上：即本次研究或调研的对象究竟是什么？本次讲座将围绕分析单元的概念展开讲解，助力我们优化参考咨询服务，同时也能让我们的工作更为高效顺畅。备注：本次讲座先于查克·汉弗莱斯（Chuck Humphrey）于2002年3月14日发布的《复杂调研实操：加拿大旅行调查》报告。