This course introduces students to Gaussian linear models and extensions for model building, including exploratory data analysis techniques and model checking, variable transformations and selection, parameter estimation and interpretation, prediction, hierarchical models, model selection and Bayesian model averaging. The concepts of linear models will be covered from Bayesian and classical viewpoints. Topics in Markov chain Monte Carlo simulation will be introduced as required. Co-requisite STA 601.
Instructional Team
| Name | location | office hours | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dr. Merlise Clyde | clyde@duke.edu | 223E Old Chem | Wed 3-4 & Fri 2:15-3:15 or by appointment |
| Vittorio Orlandi (TA) | vittorio.orlandi@duke.edu | TBA | TBA |
| Pritam Dey (TA) | pritam.dey@duke.edu | TBA | TBA |
Books & Materials
| Textbook | Ordering Information |
|---|---|
 |
Plane Answers to Complex Questions Ronald Christensen (2011) 4th Edition Springer-Verlag, NY. The textbook is freely as an eBook thru the Duke Library. You’re welcomed to read on screen or print it out. If you prefer a paperback version you can buy it at the cost of printing from Springer or purchase a hardback version at the Bookstore. |
 |
Data Analysis Using Regression and Multilevel/Hierarchical Models Gelman & Hill (2009) ISBN-13: 978-0521686891 |
 |
Bayesian and Frequentist Regression Methods Wakefield (2013). First edition Springer-Verlag ISBN 978-1-4419-0924-4. The textbook is freely as an eBook thru the Duke Library. You’re welcomed to read on screen or print out chapters. |
 |
A First Course in Bayesian Statistical Methods, Hoff, P. L. (2009), Springer. ISBN 978-0-387-92299-7 Review chapters via eBook through the Duke Library. Used in co-requisite course STA 601/STA 360 |
Computation
We will use R as a programming language for computation and data analysis, with the use existing packages written in R to support the course. All students will have access to RStudio/R on a server within the department and support during the labs. You are free to all run RStudio/R on your personal laptop or desktop. See the Resources page for books and other resources for learning R. You should bring a calculator to exams. There is no restrictions on the type of calculator (but not on a mobile device).
Discussion Forums
We will be using Piazza for class discussion. The system is highly catered to getting you help fast and efficiently from classmates, the TAs, and myself. Rather than emailing questions to the teaching staff, I encourage you to post your questions on Piazza (peer answers earn participation points!). If you have any problems or feedback for the developers, email team@piazza.com.
Find our class page at: Piazza or through the link on Sakai. Click to signup
Green Classroom
This course has achieved Duke’s Green Classroom Certification. The certification indicates that the faculty member teaching this course has taken significant steps to green the delivery of this course. Your faculty member has completed a checklist indicating their common practices in areas of this course that have an environmental impact, such as paper and energy consumption. Some common practices implemented by faculty to reduce the environmental impact of their course include allowing electronic submission of assignments, providing online readings and turning off lights and electronics in the classroom when they are not in use. The eco-friendly aspects of course delivery may vary by faculty, by course and throughout the semester. Learn more at http://sustainability.duke.edu/action/certifications/classroom/index.php.