ECM104-Quantitative Research Methods

Module Provider: School of Politics, Economics and International Relations
Number of credits: 10 [5 ECTS credits]
Level:7
Terms in which taught: Autumn term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2019/0

Email: s.p.burke@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

This module deals with some basic statistical concepts, including elementary regression, useful for dissertations and the reading of research papers. 

Aims:

The primary focus of this module is on understanding basic econometric methods. To be able to undertake econometric analysis at intermediate level and to interpret econometric results produced by others. 

Assessable learning outcomes:

On completion of the module students should be able to undertake statistical tests and analyses; understand the conditions under which the methods are valid; apply linear regression analysis; and interpret the results of statistical analyses in the context of their application. 

Additional outcomes:

Students will learn how to use the econometric package STATA. The techniques learned in this module will assist in the writing of the dissertation or research project, and in the evaluation of statistical research undertaken and reported by third parties. 

Outline content:

Core topics include: linear regression; estimation; tests of model validity; time series methods. 

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

This is a methods based module delivered by a combination of lectures and PC classes. It is taught intensively over a one week period in the middle of the Autumn term. Each of the five days consists of a 2 hour lecture in the morning, and a 2 hour practical PC session in the afternoon. The emphasis is on the interpretation of statistical evidence and the practical application of techniques. 

Summative assessment- Examinations:
There is no final examination.

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:
The single set exercise examines comprehension of and ability to apply techniques taught in the module.

Formative assessment methods:
Four exercises are set for discussion. Solutions are provided via Blackboard.

Penalties for late submission:
Penalties for late submission on this module are in accordance with the University policy. Please refer to page 5 of the Postgraduate Guide to Assessment for further information: http://www.reading.ac.uk/internal/exams/student/exa-guidePG.aspx

Assessment requirements for a pass:
A minimum mark of 50%.

Reassessment arrangements:
Re-assessment for all modules takes place in August/September of the same year.
Re-assessment for this module will be by resubmission of similarly assigned coursework by the last working day of August of the same year.

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):
1) Required text books: Students may wish to purchase the following textbook:
Koop, Gary (2013)Analysis of Economic Data. Wiley £35.99 (although earlier editions are perfectly substitutable and available second hand at a fraction of this price).

2) Specialist equipment or materials:
3) Specialist clothing, footwear or headgear:
4) Printing and binding:
5) Computers and devices with a particular specification:
6) Travel, accommodation and subsistence:

Last updated: 17 June 2019