Econometrics with Observational Data.ppt

Econometrics with Observational Data Will begin at 2PM ET For conference audio, dial 800.767.1750 and use access code 45043 After entry please dial *6 to mute your line. Econometrics with Observational Data Introduction and Identification Todd Wagner Goals for Course To enable researchers to conduct careful analyses with existing VA (and non-VA) datasets. We will Describe econometric tools and their strengths and limitations Use examples to reinforce learning Requirements Familiarity with multivariate analysis We expect you to do the readings ask questions if you don’t understand something do your best Course faculty Todd Wagner, PhD Paul Barnett, PhD Ciaran Phibbs, PhD Mark Smith, PhD Course Dates Introduction and identification: (March 12th) Cost as the dependent variable (I): (March 26th) Cost as the dependent variable (II): (April 9th) Non-linear dependent variables: (April 30th) Right-hand-side variables: (May 14) Research design (May 28th) Endogeneity and simultaneity: (June 11th) LiveMeeting Rules Mute your phone Don’t use the hold button If you have to make or answer another call, please hang up and then dial back in Features of web system Main page Slides, white board, applications demo Side page Chat Questions and answers Informal poll Polls Virtual Interaction Polls Email me (or the presenter) with questions twagner@ or todd.wagner@ If you are in a group setting, please email me the next two items. Randomized Clinical Trial RCTs are the gold-standard research design for assessing causality What is unique about a randomized trial? The treatment / exposure is randomly assigned Benefits of randomization: Causal inferences Randomization Random assignment distinguishes experimental and non-experimental design Random assignment should not be confused with random selection Selection can be important for generalizability (e.g., randomly-selected survey participants) Random assignment is required for understanding causation Limitations of RCTs Genera