Monash University Handbook 2010 Undergraduate - Unit

Synopsis

This unit introduces students to the empirical analysis of relationships between economic variables. The approach is based on linear regression theory, and emphasises 'hands on' data analysis. Topics studied will include properties of least squares estimators, hypothesis testing, the choice of appropriate functional form, the use of dummy variables, issues around modelling survey data and the problems of serial correlation, heteroscedasticity and multicollinearity.

Objectives

The learning goals associated with this unit are to:

• understand and derive the properties of ordinary least squares in summation and matrix notation
• interpret, evaluate and apply inferential methods to multiple linear regression
• understand the use and implications of data scaling, functional form and dummy variables in regression modelling
• identify the presence of heteroscedasticity, adjust OLS standard errors and perform feasible GLS in regression models
• understand issues related to modelling with time-series data.

Assessment

Within semester assessment: 40%
Examination (2 hours): 60%

Chief examiner(s)

Kathryn Cornwell

Contact hours

Two 1-hour lectures and one 2-hour tutorial per week

Prerequisites

ETC1000

Prohibitions

ETC2400, ETC3440, ECC2410