There are no prerequisites, but basic concepts of statistics and linear algebra will be a helpful background for this course.
 

The course provides a discussion of basic techniques for empirical analysis in economics and management. It starts by describing the nature of social science data and the way to conceptualize it in order to facilitate statistical analysis. It then moves to the study of specific statistical models and the interpretation of their computer output. Finally, the course presents a selection of topics in regression analysis, dealing with the most common problems found in empirical applications.
 

1. Developing the skills to use the techniques discussed in the course.

2. Learning to properly interpret the quantitative output resulting from their application.

3. Adquiring good knowledge of the recommended steps to do good quality empirical research.
 

I. INTRODUCTION

I.1. Uncertainty and Economic Analysis
I.2. The concept of Stochastic Process
I.3. Economic Data as Realizations of Stochastic Processes
I.4. Stochastic Process Representation
I.5. The Generality of the Vector Autoregressive (VAR)
Representation

II. THE LINEAR REGRESSION MODEL

II.1. The Model as a Particular Case of the Autoregressive
Representation
II.2. The Model Assumptions
II.3. The OLS estimation of the Model
II.4. The Properties of the OLS estimators
- Small Sample Properties
- Asymptotic Properties
II.5. Hypothesis Testing in the Linear Model
II.7. Interpretation of the Regression Output

III. SELECTED TOPICS IN REGRESSION ANALYSIS
 

Lectures consisting of a detailed description and discussion of the contents described in the syllabus.
 

Based on an individual paper which must apply the quantitative techniques to a specific empirical question selected by the student. The suggested scheme for the final paper is as follows:

EMPIRICAL PAPER
- Research Questions
- Selection of Variables
- Collection and Preliminary Data Analysis
- Model Specification and Estimation
- Use of the Model
 

Greene W.H. (2003), Econometric Analysis , Prentice Hall, 5th Edition
 

Class notes and/or handouts delivered during the course.
 

Monday 22/02/10
From 10:00 h. to 13:00 h.
Tuesday 23/02/10
From 10:00 h. to 13:00 h.
Wednesday 24/02/10
From 10:00 h. to 13:00 h.
Thursday 25/02/10
From 10:00 h. to 13:00 h.
Monday 08/03/10
From 10:00 h. to 13:00 h.
Tuesday 09/03/10
From 10:00 h. to 13:00 h.
Wednesday 10/03/10
From 10:00 h. to 13:00 h.
Thursday 11/03/10
From 10:00 h. to 13:00 h.
Exam 22/03/10 . At 10:00 h.