Course content

The course introduces students to structural equation modeling (also referred to as latent variable modeling). Using the traditional regression analysis as a basis, the course goes through the most common analytical approaches used in the domain of structural equation modeling (SEM). The course first treats the subjects of specification and estimation of standard confirmatory factor models as well as full SEM models. Subsequently, the course goes on with more advanced SEM techniques such as multi-group, higher-order confirmatory factor, multilevel, and growth modeling.

Learning outcome

Knowledge:
Students have theoretical knowledge about the rationale and statistical assumptions for estimating SEM models as well as interpretation and communication of SEM-results in a scientific format.
Skills:
Students can on their own manage the course software (Mplus) to employ the analytical approaches listed in the course content.
Competence:
Students have obtained theoretical/practical competence and accordingly can apply SEM to various research problems and associated research instruments.

Learning methods and activities

Lectures, seminars, and computer-assisted exercises. The course requires a minimum of five registered students to be held. The course consists of 30 hours and is arranged over a period of five days.

Compulsory assignments

• Participation in lectures, seminars, laboratory exercises.

Recommended previous knowledge

Basic knowledge of quantitative social research and statistics is recommended. Furthermore, experience with statistical software such as SPSS, STATA etc. may be useful.

Required previous knowledge

The primary requirement for admission is that the applicant holds a cand.psychol., cand.polit/Master’s degree in Psychology or an equivalent educational degree/background.