S-052: Intermediate and Advanced Statistical Methods for Applied Educational Research

Semester: 

Fall

Offered: 

2023

Syllabus: here.

This course is designed for those who want to extend their data analytic skills beyond a basic knowledge of multiple regression analysis and who want to communicate their findings clearly to audiences of researchers, scholars, and policymakers. S-052 contributes directly to the diverse data analytic toolkit that the well-equipped empirical researcher must possess in order to perform sensible analyses of complex educational, psychological, and social data. The course begins with general linear models and continues with generalized linear models, survival analysis, multilevel models, multivariate methods, causal inference, and measurement. Specific methods exemplifying each of these topics include regression, discrete-time survival analysis, fixed- and random-effects models, principal components analysis, regression discontinuity, and reliability, respectively. S-052 is an applied course. It offers conceptual explanations of statistical techniques and provides many opportunities to examine, implement, and practice these techniques using real data. Students will learn to produce readable and sensible code to enable others to replicate and extend their analyses.  Attendance at weekly sections is required.

Prerequisites: Successful completion of S-040 (B+ or better allowed, A- or A recommended) or an equivalent course or courses that include 12 or more full hours of class time on multiple regression and its direct extensions. Students who have not passed S-40 must discuss their previous training before or at the first class meeting. Students who do not meet the prerequisite should consider S-030 or S-040.  See the syllabus for more details.