Introductory Econometrics (BA)

Summary module description:
This module is designed for students who do not take any further mathematics in their degree programme beyond Part 1. The module is primarily designed to give students a general understanding of basic econometrics with an emphasis on the interpretation of basic linear regression results and their relevance in economic analysis.

Aims:
Introduce students to the empirical analysis of economic models.

Assessable learning outcomes:
At the end of the module students should be able to:
Interpret parameter estimates;
Conduct simple hypothesis tests and be able to use probability tables;
Have a general understanding of the main assumptions that underlie the application of statistics to economic problems;
Evaluate the basic quality of an estimated model.

Additional outcomes:
Ability to link and critically assess the quality of theoretical and empirical economic models.
Computing skills.

Outline content:
The Classical Normal Linear Regression model: Regression as description. A framework for inference. Confidence levels and hypothesis tests. The multiple linear regression model. The F-test. Dummy variables. Departures from main assumptions.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:
Lectures will be used for the exposition of the principal concepts, principles and techniques as well as their practical implementation via exercises and regression output analysis. Classes will concentrate further on solving exercises which students are expected to attempt beforehand. The module will make use of IT in tutorials and via Blackboard.

Summative Assessment Methods:
Written exam 80%
Class test administered by School 20%

Other information on summative assessment:
Assessment will be through two invigilated class tests. The tests have an overall weight of 20% in the final assessment mark.

Formative assessment methods:
Use of revision exercises; possible multiple choice tests; class work.

Penalties for late submission:
Penalties for late submission on this module are in accordance with the University policy.
The following penalties will be applied to coursework which is submitted after the deadline for submission:

where the piece of work is submitted up to one calendar week after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): 10% of the total marks available for the piece of work will be deducted from the mark;
where the piece of work is submitted more than one calendar week after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): a mark of zero will be recorded.

You are strongly advised to ensure that coursework is submitted by the relevant deadline. You should note that it is advisable to submit work in an unfinished state rather than to fail to submit any work.
(Please refer to the Undergraduate Guide to Assessment for further information: http://www.reading.ac.uk/internal/exams/student/exa-guideUG.aspx)

Length of examination:
One 3-hour unseen written paper.
Part 2 examinations are held in the Summer term.

Requirements for a pass:
A minimum overall mark of 40%.