Introduction to Structural Equation Modeling (SEM)

online course

The objective of this course is to show how structural equation modeling can be used to develop and/or test both measurement models (scales) and causal theories between latent variables with survey data. When discussing full structural equation modeling, we will treat formative and reflective indicators, mediation, indirect effects and moderation. A further important aim is to familiarise participants with the AMOS program. The program will be run by graphical input via path diagrams (AMOS Graphics). A special focus will be given to the analysis of comparative data across groups.

This includes how to test for measurement invariance using Multiple group confirmatory factor analysis. Participants are encouraged to bring their own data and apply the new procedures besides the prepared examples of the instructors in the practical sessions.

Course leader

Eldad Davidov is a Professor of sociology at the Universities of Cologne, Germany and Zurich, Switzerland.

Peter Schmidt is a Professor emeritus of social science methodology at the University of Giessen, Germany.

Target group

graduate students, doctoral researchers, early career researchers, experienced researchers

Prerequisites
Some experience with regression analysis techniques is required. Basic knowledge of factor analysis is recommended.

Credits info

The Summer School cannot grant credits. We only deliver a Certificate of Participation, i.e. we certify your attendance.

If you consider using Summer School workshops to obtain credits (ECTS), you will have to investigate at your home institution (contact the person/institute responsible for your degree) to find out whether they recognise the Summer School, how many credits can be earned from a workshop/course with roughly 35 hours of teaching, no graded work, and no exams.

Make sure to investigate this matter before registering if this is important to you.

Fee info

CHF 600: Reduced fee: 600 Swiss Francs per weekly workshop for students (requires proof of student status).
CHF 1000: Normal fee: 1000 Swiss Francs per weekly workshop for all other