We offer a 5-day course on how to perform basic SEM analyses using Mplus. The main objective of this course is to learn how to analyse several models with Mplus (e.g., path models, multiple group models, mediation and moderation, confirmatory factor analysis, and longitudinal models). No previous knowledge of Mplus is assumed, but prior knowledge of SEM, although not mandatory, will make this course more useful.
Many researchers in the social and behavioral sciences are using, or want to use, Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) to investigate their theories. Mplus is a popular and flexible software package for doing SEM. We offer a 5-day course on how to perform basic SEM analyses using Mplus.
The course starts with an introduction on how to use Mplus to perform regression analysis and how to ‘communicate’ with Mplus (e.g., how to specify a model, and how to deal with error messages). In the following days basic models relevant for social scientists will be discussed, including multiple group models, confirmatory factor analysis, and cross-lagged panel models, and important topics such as moderation, mediation and testing for measurement invariance are covered. On the last day participants can meet with Mplus experts for individual consultation, and work on their own data. On the other days, the morning session consists of lectures, and the afternoon session of a computer lab where participants practice with Mplus.
Prerequisites:
- Researchers are expected to have a basic knowledge of regression analysis and exploratory factor analysis (i.e., principal component analysis). These techniques are discussed in most books on multivariate statistics (e.g., Andy Field: Discovering Statistics; Tabachnick and Fidell: Using multivariate statistics). Some knowledge of SEM and software like AMOS, LISREL, Mx or EQS is helpful, but not mandatory. If you have no experience with SEM, please read the following paper: Hox, J. J. & Bechger, T.M. (2007). An introduction to structural equation modelling. Family Science Review, 11, 354-373. Accessible via www.joophox.net.
- No previous knowledge of Mplus is assumed. You also do not need to have any knowledge on matrix algebra, calculus, or likelihood theory.
Please note that there are no graded activities included in this course. Therefore, we are not able to provide students with a transcript of grades. You will obtain a certificate upon completion of this course.
Target audience
Participants (Research Master Students, PhD students, or post-graduate researchers) from a variety of fields, including sociology, psychology, education, human development, marketing, business, biology, medicine, political science, and communication sciences may benefit from the course.
Aim of the course
The main objective of the course is to acquire a basic understanding of how to use Mplus for SEM as applied in the social and behavioral sciences. Moreover, participants will learn how to analyse datasets with Mplus, to interpret the output and to report the results.
Study load
Days 1-4: morning session consists of lectures, and the afternoon session of a computer lab where everyone can practice working with Mplus. Day 5: individual consultations with Mplus experts and room to work on your own data.
Course fee: €720
Included:
- Fee covers
- Course + course materials
Housing cost: €200
Housing provider:
- Utrecht Summer School
- Extra information about the fee
Tuition fee for PhD students from the Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences from Utrecht University will be funded by the Graduate School of Social and Behavioural Sciences.
Utrecht Summer School does not offer scholarships for this course.
For more information click "LINK TO ORIGINAL" below.