Based on research-historical background, path analysis models were first presented and afterwards the attendees had the opportunity to calculate models themselves. In the third session, the procedure for confirmative factor models (CFA) was explained and tested in practice. In the fourth and last session of the workshop, advanced models like latent growth curve modeling will be discussed in conclusion. For the National Educational Panel Study the topics of the last two sessions are especially relevant because confirmative models may serve to monitor the quality of survey instruments. Moreover, growth models can be used to examine longitudinal changes concerning competencies.