This course is designed to provide a practical introduction to the most common microeconometric techniques currently in use in applied economic analysis. Many of these methods move beyond the standard tools of econometric analysis, perhaps in order to exploit the richness or structure of large sources of data, or to compensate for some partial observability of economic data, or to build complexities in economic decision-making into an empirical study.
The course may be taken over two or three days. Those without a background in basic econometrics are recommended to take an optional refresher day (covering standard regression methods). Those with a background in basic econometric analysis can take Day 2 and 3 as a two-day unit.
Some emphasis is placed on the link between economic theory and econometric estimation, and the course deals explicitly with interpretation and critical appraisal of econometric estimates.
There will be a strong emphasis on applied work, exploiting the availability of computer techniques for model solution. Instruction in the use of computer software (STATA) will be given as the course proceeds.