Combining and Analyzing Complex Data

After completing Modules 1 and 2 of this course you will understand how to estimate descriptive statistics, overall and for subgroups, when you deal with survey data. We will review software for estimation (R, Stata, SAS) with examples for how to estimate things like means, proportions, and totals. You will also learn how to estimate parameters in linear, logistic, and other models and learn software options with emphasis on R. Module 3 and 4 discuss how you can add additional data to your analysis. This requires knowing about record linkage techniques, and what it takes to get permission to link data.

Module 2 covers how to estimate linear and logistic model parameters using survey data. After completing this module, you will understand how the methods used differ from the ones for non-survey data. We also cover the features of survey data sets that need to be accounted for when estimating standard errors of estimated model parameters.

Module starts with the current debate on using more (linked) administrative records in the U.S. Federal Statistical System, and a general motivation for linking records. Several examples will be given on why it is useful to link data. Challenges of record linkage will be discussed. A brief overview over key linkage techniques is included as well.