220078 SE SE Advanced Data Analysis 3 (2017W)

The objective of this course is to introduce students to the core methods and processes of structural equation modeling (SEM), a family of statistical approaches able to explore complex relationships between and amongst latent and observed variables. In particular, participating students will develop a fundamental understanding of the following topics:

Basics of SEM and how it differs from other statistical methods (e.g., multiple regression)
Strategies for model specification, identification, estimation, and determining fit
Confirmatory factor analysis
Structural models
Mediation and moderation in a structural framework
Combining measurement and structural models

As this is an introductory course, we will focus on applying SEM methods to non-nested, cross-sectional, and continuous variables. Emphasis will be placed on the practical applications of SEM and latent variable techniques to address relevant questions in communications and the social sciences more broadly. Course lectures, readings, and assignments will reflect this applied focus, and will help students to develop appropriate analytic plans and interpret results in addition to teaching them how to conduct analyses using AMOS software.