ISS-3203 Topics in Regression Analysis
Code
Weight of the course
Period
Course Leader
Lecturer
Teaching Methods
Modes of Assessment
Contact
ISS-3203
4 ECTS
TERM 2
Arjun Bedi
Arjun Bedi
Participatory Lecture, Computer Exercise, Tutorial
Assignment(s) 40%, Take Home Exam 60%
Marja de Clercq Zubli
Learning objectives
The course objectives are: (a) to deepen and broaden the students’ knowledge and understanding of
material needed for empirical quantitative analysis of micro and macro data relevant to development
issues; (b) to cover the theory and practice of modern econometrics at a level appropriate for
postgraduates emphasizing application; (c) to teach the students the habits of thought, knowledge
and understanding to be able to carry out good quality applied econometric research with confidence
and authority; (d) to develop the critical insight to appraise econometric results obtained by other
researchers. The course is application oriented. Accordingly, the emphasis will be on application of
techniques for policy analysis and will not be overly concerned with mathematical proofs. The course
also aims to provide students with the ability to use STATA in an effective manner.
Course description
This course is the second block of the two-block Research Methodology package on Quantitative
Research Methods. It builds on the material covered in 3103 and is intended for students interested in
quantitative development policy analysis. The first part of the course discusses methods that are
typically used to analyze survey (micro) data. Topics covered in this part of the course include
estimation and inference using simultaneous equation models, qualitative and limited dependent
variable models (probit, logit and tobit models). The second part of the course concentrates on
regression methods and issues that typically arise while using time series data. Course coverage
includes estimation of dynamic econometric models, discussion of stationary and non-stationary timeseries, unit roots and cointegration.
Indicative reading
The basic text for the course is
Wooldridge, J.M. (2009) Introductory Econometrics: A Modern Approach (4thedn). Mason OH:
Thomson South-Western, CENGAGE Learning
Prerequisites
Prior courses in statistics and knowledge of the multiple regression model are prerequisites for this
course. Students should also be familiar with the effects of relaxing the assumptions of the classical
normal regression model.