PLCY 816 Adv Quantitative Methods II

Quantitative Methods II introduces the use of econometric statistical methods associated with causal inference. Topics include the following multivariate techniques: multivariate analysis of variance and covariance, path analysis, factor analysis, discriminant analysis, and logistic regression. Cross-sectional data will be analyzed within the context of public policy questions. This course requires use of the “R” suite of analytical tools.

Second in the series of courses in statistical methodology, Quantitative Analysis II, PLCY 816 equips the doctoral student with advanced tools of measurement in the field of public policy. The student will learn techniques supporting the development and testing of theory for public-sector decision-making. Proficiency in this area will position the student to develop indicators for assessing societal conditions, for making recommendations on governance, affording empirical evidence for the evaluation of overall impact of actions resulting from competing theories.

Textbook readings and lecture presentations

No details available.

Course Requirements Checklist

After reading the Course Syllabus and Student Expectations, the student will complete the related checklist found in the Course Overview.

Discussions (4)

Discussions are collaborative learning experiences. Therefore, the student is required to provide a thread in response to the provided prompt. Each thread must be 800 words, include at least 2 scholarly citations, and demonstrate course-related knowledge. In addition to the thread, the student is required to reply to 2 other classmates’ threads. Each reply must be 500 words and include at least 1 scholarly citation. All threads and replies must adhere to current APA format.

Computational Lab Assignments (3)

These exercises are designed to cover the use of “R” Programming in the performance of the various Quantitative Analysis II econometric procedures. Using data sets provided, the student will perform designated quantitative operations and then check work against the solutions provided. Then, once that initial work is successfully achieved, the student will find data pertaining to the policy area of specialization and perform the same operations on the data retrieved. Then, the student will write a statement of findings in current APA format.

Research Final Assignment

The student will provide a 15-page policy paper in current APA format that discusses: the background of the selected public policy question, its scope and severity, a well-specified statement of the problem, policy alternatives, criteria by which the policy alternatives should be judged, and recommended action(s).