Policy in Numbers Level 2: Advanced Quantitative Methods for Non-Quantitative Policy Makers
Course Dates
- July 12-16, 2021
Each day the course runs from 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Registration
Course Information
Course Overview
In this advanced quant for non-quants class, students will be guided on a hands-on journey to producing a statistical study involving regression over two days. Students will select a topic, work with data to produce a data set, run some regressions, recognize quantitative issues, fix them, and discuss the proper way to write up their findings.
The first level of this course aims to equip non-quantitative policy makers with the tools they need to work in the new world of quantitative work and big data, assuming no previous mathematical or statistical knowledge. These classes can be taken in series or on their own in either order.
By working all the way through a quantitative study, the process will be demystified, allowing non-quantitative professionals (or those whose quantitative skills are rusty or out of date) a deeper ability to critique, supervise, or create quantitative studies. A guided tour into the process of producing a quantitative study is the fastest way to come to a deeper understanding of how to work in this area regardless of your background. The professor for this course was a self-taught econometrician before his formal PhD training at George Mason University, so he knows anyone with the will to do the work can also quickly become well-versed in quantitative methods.
Course Goals
By the end of the class, students will be able to:
- Understand the mechanics of producing a regression-based study, including data cleaning and analysis;
- Work hands-on with the tools of the trade to work with data or run regression analysis;
- Understand an appropriate topic for regression analysis and the data appropriate for studying such a topic;
- Supervise quantitative staff working on or summarizing quantitative studies in a variety of contexts; and
- Contribute constructively to quantitative work used in policymaking, including an active role in analysis.
Target Audience
- Policy makers not trained in quantitative methods who want to have a voice in policy involving quantitative methods;
- Working professionals who work for businesses, think tanks, and advocacy groups that may need to affect the outcome of government policy by creating and/or understanding supporting or opposing quantitative studies;
- Professionals who were once quantitatively trained but who have not used those skills for a long time and need a refresher;
- Government employees who may wish to move into a policy-making role with a quantitative component; or
- Professionals seeking to move into a career in government policy making with a quantitative component.
Executive Core Qualification (ECQ) Alignment
The content of this course covers competencies addressed by the following ECQs: Leading Change; Leading People; Results Driven; Business Acumen Building Coalitions.
Faculty
Andrew Wise, PhD