8th Summer Institute in Advanced Statistics and Methods [Summer 2009]

Institute Objective

Dr Tai King teaching in the Sociology computer lab Rather than presenting the mathematical underpinnings of the methods, the workshops provide hands-on experience applying the latest programs in data analysis.

Descriptions of Workshops

Location:
All Classes meet at Room 430, Park Hall on North Campus of the University at Buffalo and begin at 9:00 AM. A continental breakfast will be served each morning.

Module 1: May 11– 15th, Structural Equation Modeling (SEM):
This course introduces participants to structural equations (SEM) both with and without latent variables. It is designed to provide the necessary skills to use SEM to analyze social science data with continuous variables. The course will primarily focus on the application of SEM as opposed to mathematical underpinnings. We will cover introductory topics including path analysis, moderation and mediation, confirmatory factor analysis, and hybrid structural equation models (models that include causal paths between latent variables). Special topics will include working with non-normally distributed variables and missing data. Upon finishing the course students will be able to estimate models using available software to conduct research and interpret results. The course also prepares students for more advanced topics, including latent growth curve analysis and latent mixture modeling.

Daily Schedule:
SEM schedule

Book(s):
Byrne, B. M. (2001). Structural equation modeling with AMOS: Basic concepts, applications, and programming. Mahwah, NJ: Lawrence Erlbaum Associates.

Kline, R.B. Principle & Practice of Structural Equation Modeling. (2004), 2nd ed. Guildford Press

Instructor:
Ronald Rogge, University of Rochester

Module 2: May 18– 22th, Hierarchical Linear Modeling (HLM 6.0):
This 5 full-day workshop covers the basic principles and applications of hierarchical linear modeling (HLM) in educational, psychological and social research. It covers two-level and three-level HLM techniques for research such as one designed to understand change in individuals within the context of a group or an organization. For example, a researcher can examine how the effects of SES on delinquent behaviors of individuals vary depending on the characteristics of neighborhoods. This type of multilevel modeling or growth curve modeling is becoming increasingly popular in behavioral science research. Participants will learn how to build models, run the HLM program and examine the results by working step-by-step on hypothetical and real data sets.

Daily Schedule:
HLM schedule

Book(s):
Raudenbush, S.W. & Bryk, A.S. (2002). Hierarchical linear models: Applications and data analysis methods.
2nd edition. Newbury Park, CA: Sage.
Raudenbush, S.W., Bryk, A.S., Cheong, Y.F. Congdon, R., & Toit, M. (2004). HLM 6: Hierarchical Linear and Non-Linear Modeling. Chicago: Scientific Software International.

Instructor:
Jaekyung Lee, Dept of Counseling and Educational Psychology,SUNY Buffalo

Module 3: May 26 – 27th, Meta-Analysis of Social Sciences:
Meta-analysis is an advanced statistical technique that allows researchers to summarize quantitative findings across multiple studies. The procedure also allows investigation of moderators to study effect sizes and theory/model testing. Students will learn basics of conducting meta- analysis including literature review, inclusion criteria, article coding, data input and preparation, data analysis and interpretation of outcomes. A basic knowledge of statistics is required for participation and students may purchase software at a reduced rate.

Book(s):
The workshop textbook can be downloaded for free. If you wish, you will be able to purchase the software package at a greatly discounted price at the end of the course.

Instructor:
Thomas Feely, Dept of Communication, SUNY/Buffalo

Module 4: May 28, Evaluation Study:

This one day workshop concentrates on a general overview of the basic steps involved in the design of program evaluation for educational program, programs in mental health, crime, poverty, and other areas. We will first review several evaluation approaches, then proceed step-by-step through a basic program evaluation design. Key evaluation concepts in design and methods will be applied to actual program situations, including needs assessment, program design and theory; program process and implementation; and assessing program outcome/impact.

References (recommended but not required):

Rossi et al. Evaluation: A Systematic Approach, 7th ed. (Sage) 2003.

Patton, Michael Q., Utilization Focused Evaluation, 4th ed. (Sage), 2008.

Instructor:

Gary Ciurczak, President of Ciurczak & Co.

Lodging and Directions

A Motel 6 is located adjacent to the SUNY at Buffalo north campus; rates are about $40 a night. Phone: 716-834-2231; Address: 4400 Maple Rd. Amherst, NY 14226. Please note that there are many lodging options available, but this one is likely among the most reasonably priced. Please contact hotel management directly as we cannot make arrangements for you.

Directions to the Campus from Motel 6:

Make left turn on Maple; go about 150 yards.
At the first signal light, take left turn (Flint).
Go about 1 mile, take right turn at the first stop sign past the light (Augspurger)
Jacobs' A is the first parking lot on the right; Park Hall is immediately behind it. We will be able to provide parking tags upon request.

Additional directions can be found here.

Parking

For those of you who need parking permit you should inform Tai Kang before the workshop starts.

Please park your car in "Jacobs A" in North Campus.

Registration Fees

Summer Scholars: 1 day workshop = $160; 2 days workshops = $320; 5 days workshops = $800
Students: 1 day workshop = $80; 2 days workshops = $160; 5 days workshops = $400