Modelling hierarchically structured data with MLwiN software, fall 2012

Course description

Hierarchically structured data are common in quantitative research in social sciences, psychology and educational sciences. The hierarchical structure of the data involves correlations between observations and these correlations must be accounted for in statistical analysis. Hierarchical or multilevel models are often used for this purpose. In the course, basic properties of multilevel regression and ANOVA models are introduced and demonstrated with the MLwiN software. In addition to lecture sessions, PC training sessions will be arranged for practical application of the methods, using real data sets.

Target group

The course is intended to post-graduate students in social and behavioral sciences and economics (main target group) but also can be included in methodologically oriented Master studies (e.g. the REMS program) and Master studies in statistical science.

Number of students

max 24 students

Credits

3 ECTS credits with completed practical work (see section Lecture materials and homework).

Teachers

Professor Antero Malin University of Jyväskylä (main lecturer)
 Professor Risto Lehtonen (instructor).

Schedule

two-day intensive course in period 1 during 16.-17.10.2012; Tuesday, October 16, 9-14 o'clock and Wednesday, October 17, 9-18 o'clock.

Course schedule

Tuesday 16.10.2012
 9:00-9:45 Lectures Risto Lehtonen
 10:00-12:00 Lectures Antero Malin
 12:00-12:45 Lunch break
 12:45-14:00 PC training Antero Malin

Wednesday 17.10.2012
 9:00-9:45 Lectures Risto Lehtonen
 10:00-12:00 Lectures Antero Malin
 12:00-12:45 Lunch break
 12:45-14:00 PC training Antero Malin
 14:00-14:30 Coffee break
 14:30-16:30 Lectures Antero Malin
 16:45-18:00 PC training Antero Malin

Place

Swedish School of Social Science (Snellmaninkatu 12), 1st floor, IT classroom 110 (SSKH IT-SAL 110).

Lecture materials and Homework

See bscw platform

Main reading

Goldstein H. (2003). Multilevel Statistical Models, 3rd Ed. London: Arnold.
 or
 Goldstein H. (2011). Multilevel Statistical Models, 4th Ed. London: Arnold.
 e-book accessible via Dawsonera Helka
2nd Edition - Downloadable, free 1995 version

Software

MLwiN software package for fitting multilevel models: Information

Supplementary reading

Lehtonen R. and Pahkinen E. (2004). Practical Methods for Design and Analysis of Complex Surveys. Second Edition. Chichester: Wiley. Section 9.4.
 e-book accessible via Dawsonera Helka

Contact

Prof. Risto Lehtonen risto.lehtonen@helsinki.fi

Registration