EC252-7-AU-CO:
Introduction to Econometric Methods

The details
2020/21
Economics
Colchester Campus
Autumn
Postgraduate: Level 7
Current
Thursday 08 October 2020
Friday 18 December 2020
20
18 August 2020

 

Requisites for this module
(none)
(none)
(none)
(none)

 

BE333, EC352

Key module for

(none)

Module description

This module provides an introduction to the econometric methods commonly used to analyse economic data. The focus of the module is on linear regression and the ordinary least squares (OLS) estimation procedure. This is introduced after a review of basic probability, random variables, simple descriptive statistics and the concept of the null hypothesis.

Students will then be taught about how t-tests and F-tests can be used to make inferences about the estimated parameters and what diagnostic tests are available to test some of the assumptions of the simple OLS model. Then the module will move onto the question of identification and model specification, the concepts and implications of consistency and efficiency. The module will be taught throughout using the Stata software package and always using economic examples using real data.

Module aims

The aim of this module is to teach students intermediate undergraduate level econometric methods. Those methods are more sophisticated compared to the prerequisite module EC114. The module material will provide a good background to students who wish to write a final year dissertation by using quantitative methods.

Module learning outcomes

Upon successful completion of this module students will have learned how to carry out simple statistical and econometric calculations. In addition they will possess the ability to understand and assess critically empirical findings reported in the applied economics literature. In addition, they should be able to use the linear regression model and the econometric methods developed for the linear regression model in order to conduct a simple econometric investigation of an empirical issue of interest. In completing tests/assignments, students will demonstrate their problem-solving analytical and deductive skills.

This module delivers key employability skills of adoption of new techniques and project management (Career Development), and reflection and evaluation (Personal Development Planning). The key academic skills delivered by the module are detailed in the Key Skills table.

Module information

No additional information available.

Learning and teaching methods

2 one hour lectures and one class per week in one term

Bibliography

  • Stock, James H.; Watson, Mark W. (2019) Introduction to econometrics, Boston: Pearson.

The above list is indicative of the essential reading for the course. The library makes provision for all reading list items, with digital provision where possible, and these resources are shared between students. Further reading can be obtained from this module's reading list.

Assessment items, weightings and deadlines

Coursework / exam Description Deadline Coursework weighting
Coursework   Autumn Term Test     
Coursework   Autumn Term Exercise     
Exam  Main exam: 120 minutes during Summer/Long Vacation 

Additional coursework information

Feedback for this module will occur through class meetings where we will go over the answers to problem sets and where you will be able to ask questions about your own method of solution; answers that will be posted on the website for the module that will give you written guidance on the appropriate method to approach the problems, assignments, and tests; and office hours where any additional questions can be addressed. You should be sure that you use these methods to understand how to improve your own performance. For modules including a term paper, the term paper will be returned with individualised feedback that addresses what the marking criteria are and how you could improve your own work.

Exam format definitions

  • Remote, open book: Your exam will take place remotely via an online learning platform. You may refer to any physical or electronic materials during the exam.
  • In-person, open book: Your exam will take place on campus under invigilation. You may refer to any physical materials such as paper study notes or a textbook during the exam. Electronic devices may not be used in the exam.
  • In-person, open book (restricted): The exam will take place on campus under invigilation. You may refer only to specific physical materials such as a named textbook during the exam. Permitted materials will be specified by your department. Electronic devices may not be used in the exam.
  • In-person, closed book: The exam will take place on campus under invigilation. You may not refer to any physical materials or electronic devices during the exam. There may be times when a paper dictionary, for example, may be permitted in an otherwise closed book exam. Any exceptions will be specified by your department.

Your department will provide further guidance before your exams.

Overall assessment

Coursework Exam
50% 50%

Reassessment

Coursework Exam
50% 50%
Module supervisor and teaching staff
Dr Gordon Kemp, email: kempgcr@essex.ac.uk.
Dr Gordon Kemp
For further information, send an email message to ueco@essex.ac.uk.

 

Availability
No
No
No

External examiner

No external examiner information available for this module.
Resources
Available via Moodle
Of 1367 hours, 27 (2%) hours available to students:
1340 hours not recorded due to service coverage or fault;
0 hours not recorded due to opt-out by lecturer(s).

 

Further information
Economics

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