Applied Regression Analysis: Estimation, Diagnostics, and Modelling

online course

"Learn about regression analysis using R with a focus on demonstrating its usefulness in policy analysis and other fields. You will learn to use various data and models to determine when and how regression can be applied effectively.

Need to know
You must have a basic understanding of probability. Basic knowledge of R would also be useful. If you don't have this knowledge, consider taking the courses Introduction to R and Introduction to Inferential Statistics.
Before the course
You must complete up to ten hours' preparatory work. This includes:
• becoming familiar with R
• viewing pre-recorded lectures

In Depth

The concept of regression is fundamental to statistical analysis and serves as the foundation for more advanced modelling techniques. Gaining a firm grasp on regression analysis is essential for building a strong understanding of statistical analysis overall.

Key topics covered
Day 1
A brief review of the necessary ingredients from probability and statistics. You will learn the basic functionality of the statistical software R through application, starting with the generation of descriptive statistics and graphics.

Day 2
Beginning with the simple regression model, you will learn about a theoretical derivation of coefficient estimates in the Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regression model and an overview of its properties. You will also discuss assumptions that underlie the validity of a simple linear regression model.

Day 3
Once you have established a solid understanding of the simple linear regression model, the instructor will move on to statistical inference.

Day 4
Covering multiple linear regression, which allows for more than one explanatory variable. Within the context of multiple regression, you will pay particular attention to identifying models that provide the most credible estimate of the explanatory variable of interest.

Day 5
Non-linear regression models will be introduced along with other more advanced regression techniques.

How the course will work online
You will have access to a number of online pre-course materials for you to work through at your own pace. Readings will be supplemented with around four hours of pre-recorded lectures and interactive R notebooks.

You will be provided with an RStudio Cloud account , where you will find all the data and a ready-made set-up for RStudio. With the help of pre-recorded videos, you can start exploring R before the live sessions. You can keep all course materials for future reference.

Pre-recorded lectures will introduce the major topics you will discuss in detail during the course. R notebooks will let you explore R at your own pace, along with discussing the code and models together during the live sessions. Canvas forums will be created for each topic where you can discuss, share code and ask questions.

During the course week, expect to be in live sessions amounting to 15 hours in total. You will get to know each other and each other's projects, and explore how you can apply regression analysis to answer relevant questions in political science. The instructor will work with you to tackle the theoretical problems you will face in designing your analysis. They will also help you use R to manipulate data, program models, and to visualise data and results.

You will complete assignments to test the knowledge you have gained. You can discuss these assignments, and any problems you may have, together. The instructor will host live Q&A sessions and social breaks. There will also be designated ‘office hours’, during which you can sign up for a quick one-to-one consultation."

Course leader

Daniel Kovarek is a postdoctoral research fellow at the European University Institute. He studies political behaviour at the voter and the elite level; his expertise lies in the intersection of political geography and distributive politics.

Target group

The course is designed for a demanding audience, including researchers, professional analysts, and advanced students.

Course aim

This course will introduce you to regression analysis using R. You will learn about the classical theory of Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regression, along with non-linear regression techniques. Through the use of various data sets and models, you will gain an understanding of when and how regression can be valuable in policy analysis and other contexts.

Credits info

4 EC
"You can earn up to four credits for attending this course.
3 ECTS credits – Attend 100% of live sessions and engage fully with class activities.
4 ECTS credits – Attend 100% of live sessions, engage fully with class activities and complete a post-class assignment."

Fee info

GBP 492: ECPR Member - check if your institution is a member here: https://ecpr.eu/Membership/CurrentMembers
GBP 985: ECPR Non-Member

Scholarships

Funding applications for the 2024 ECPR Methods School Winter instalment are now closed. For more details on funding opportunities for ECPR's other events, please visit https://ecpr.eu/Funding/Funding