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Core programme
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Quantitative Methods 2Michaelmas term 2011 Kevin O'Rourke, All Souls College Igor Zurimendi , Pembroke College OBJECTIVES The aim of this course is to expand students’
knowledge of quantitative methods, giving a particular emphasis to applied
econometric techniques. It attempts to provide useful analytical tools for
those willing to carry out empirical work in their professional lives, and to
give those interested in an academic career the theoretical background needed
to approach more advanced courses in the subject. To achieve this, the course is organised around theoretically-oriented
lectures with ample opportunity for practical application. The discussion of
theoretical topics will be complemented by a close reading of the scholarly literature,
where students will be able to see how concepts covered in class are applied by
economic historians in practice. Also, since the focus is on applied methods,
computer applications form an integral part of the course and extensive use is
made of STATA, one of the most widespread statistical packages used to perform
econometric analysis. On completion of the course, the student should be able to understand
the basic linear regression model, how it is used to test a variety of
theories, the kind of problems that can arise when the assumptions of the model
are violated, and how the researcher can overcome such problems. More advanced
topics will also be discussed such as time series and panel data econometrics,
techniques for modelling limited dependent variables, and dealing with issues
surrounding model specification and endogeneity. (N.B.: In order to balance
applied and theoretical econometrics, the material will be presented without
resorting to matrix algebra and no advanced skills in mathematics or statistics
are required to follow the course. Students must, however, be prepared to adapt
to new statistical concepts and symbols commonly used in econometric theory.) COURSE
ARRANGEMENTS There will be eightU sessions in the Michaelmas Term, beginning
in Week 1 and concluding in Week 8. Each session will last about two-and-a-half
hours. These will take place:
Each session consists of a
lecture on a theoretical topic, discussion of a prescribed journal article, and
hands-on work on the computer. As in other intensive courses, this will require
a considerable effort and students are expected to perform a series of tasks:
Only after these tasks are
fulfilled successfully can the course teacher, as required by Examination
Regulations, confirm a candidate's satisfactory participation in the course to
the board of examiners. BIBLIOGRAPHY The course textbook will be:
The programme will follow
the structure of this book and many of the exercises will be taken from it, or
make reference to it. Students are advised to ensure that they have access to a copy of the textbook during
Michaelmas term. For some specific topics,
additional readings will be suggested from textbooks such as Gujarati’s Basic Econometrics [2003], Kennedy’s A Guide to Econometrics [2003], Pindyck
& Rubinfeld’s Econometric Models and Economic
Forecasts [1998], or Thomas’ Modern
Econometrics: An Introduction [1996], as well as from professional
articles. A full reading list for each week will be distributed in the first
class. Computing Facilities
Students may use the
Computing Room in the Faculty of History (Old High School for Boys) in George
Street, 8 am till 8 pm seven days a week, unless the room is being used for a
class. There are 19 computers connected to an A4 printer. An A3+
sized scanner is also available. Access to the building and the room is by
swipe card. In order to gain access to the room, you must first register with
the Faculty’s IT Office (tel. (6)15031 or email HUitsupport@history.ox.ac.ukUH). |