Structural equation modeling

This course will build on students’ previous knowledge of multiple linear regression and expanding to allow for correlated and casually related latent variables. Provides the basic theoretical background necessary for the application of Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) to research problems including model specification, identification, path analysis, estimation, testing fit, respecification, confirmatory factor analysis and issues concerning the interpretation of SEM results. Advanced topic will be discussed if time permits. The software package Mplus will be the primary analysis tool for this course, and the R software will be used as a complementary. Focus of this course will be on applying SEM to real world research. Understanding of linear regression is assumed for this course.