Multilevel modelling

Introduction

Multilevel modelling is an important and valuable method that can be used to analyse ‘hierarchical’ data. In such data observations are nested within higher level units. For instance, observations about pupils are nested within schools.

In this type of data outcomes (e.g., the performance of pupils in schools) are caused by factors at both the individual level (e.g., the pupil’s skills), and at a higher, contextual, level shared by some of the individuals (e.g., the  characteristics of the teacher).

Course information

ECTS: 2.5 
Number of sessions: 4
Hours per session: 3

Aims and working method

We will look into both the theory and practice of multilevel modelling. Participants will learn how to run basic two-level models in the software program R, using both exercise data and their own data.

Before each meeting, participants will have to (individually) follow the assigned parts of our Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) on Coursera.org. During the meetings the theory presented in the MOOC will be discussed in more detail, and any remaining questions will be answered.

Entry level

To attend this course properly participants should ideally have basic knowledge of the program R. If you do not have such knowledge yet, you can first follow our course on Data Analysis with R. If you doubt whether you have sufficient knowledge about R, please contact the lecturer, Marleen de Moor.