Introduction to Structural Equation Modeling (SEM)
This course will teach you the fundamental concepts and theory of Structural Equation Modeling, including model specification, model identification, model estimation, model testing, and model modification.
Overview
This course covers the theory of Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) – a general statistical modeling technique to establish relationships among variables. It explores the key feature of SEM – that observed variables are understood to represent a small number of “latent constructs” that cannot be directly measured, only inferred. It includes practical work with computer software and real data.
- Intermediate
- 4 Weeks
- Expert Instructor
- Tuiton-Back Guarantee
- 100% Online
- TA Support
Learning Outcomes
At the conclusion of this course students will be able to specify different forms of models using observed, latent, dependent and independent variables. Student will be able to conduct confirmatory factor analysis, and diagram SEM models.
- Install LISREL, enter and edit data
- Specify various SEM models
- Define and identify latent variables
- Test and modify SEM models
- Implement models in software
Who Should Take This Course
Researches and analysts who want to go beyond simple models and incorporate multi-directionality, multiple causes and latent variables.
Our Instructors
Dr. Randall E. Schumacker
Dr. Randall E. Schumacker is Professor in Educational Research at the University of Alabama, and was the founder, editor (1994-1998), and is the current emeritus editor of Structural Equation Modeling: A Multidisciplinary Journal. He is now the editor of Measurement: Interdisciplinary Research and Perspectives. Randall also founded the Structural Equation Modeling Special Interest Group at the American Educational Research Association.
Course Syllabus
Week 1
Preliminaries
- LISREL software installation
- PRELIS
- Data entry and Data Edit issues
- Correlation and Covariance Data Files
Week 2
Modeling
- SEM Basics
- Regression models
- Diagramming Models
- Path Analysis Models
Week 3
Measurement Models
- Exploratory vs. Confirmatory factor analysis
- Latent Variables
- CFA models
Week 4
Developing Structural Equation Models
- Combining Path and Factor Models
- 5 Basic SEM steps
- Model Specification
- Model Identification
- Model Estimation
- Model Testing
- Model Modification
- Amos Audio/Video Presentation
Class Dates
2024
Instructors: Dr. Randall E. Schumacker
2025
Instructors: Dr. Randall E. Schumacker
Prerequisites
Participants should have some familiarity with statistical modeling (e.g. regression) and the basics of educational measurement and assessment.
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Register For This Course
Introduction to Structural Equation Modeling (SEM)
Additional Information
Organization of Course
This course takes place online at The Institute for 4 weeks. During each course week, you participate at times of your own choosing – there are no set times when you must be online. Course participants will be given access to a private discussion board. In class discussions led by the instructor, you can post questions, seek clarification, and interact with your fellow students and the instructor.
At the beginning of each week, you receive the relevant material, in addition to answers to exercises from the previous session. During the week, you are expected to go over the course materials, work through exercises, and submit answers. Discussion among participants is encouraged. The instructor will provide answers and comments, and at the end of the week, you will receive individual feedback on your homework answers.
Time Requirements
This is a 4-week course requiring 10-15 hours per week of review and study, at times of your choosing.
Homework
Homework in this course consists of short answer questions to test concepts, guided data analysis problems using software, and guided data modeling problems using software.
In addition to assigned readings, this course also has supplemental readings available online, and an exam.
Course Text
All necessary materials are provided in the course. For those wishing more detail and a ready reference the recommended course text is A Beginner’s Guide to Structural Equation Modeling, 4th edition, published Dec 2015, by Randall E. Schumacker and Richard Lomax.
Software
The course will provide illustrations in LISREL, a programming environment. You can download a free student version of LISREL from the textbook website. The Introductory guide and user’s manual are also available here. TA’s can provide LISREL support if needed.
Course staff will not be available to illustrate or help with examples other than those included in the course. Students are encouraged to visit each software website to obtain the latest student versions of the software. Some, but not all software can be obtained on vendor websites.
MAC users note: LISREL software is not available for Macintosh. Mac end users run the Windows editions of the software products using Virtual PC or VM on Power PC Macs (G series) or the Windows OS on Intel-based Macs.
Course Fee & Information
Enrollment
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Transfers and Withdrawals
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Options for Credit and Recognition
This course is eligible for the following credit and recognition options:
No Credit
You may take this course without pursuing credit or a record of completion.
Mastery or Certificate Program Credit
If you are enrolled in mastery or certificate program that requires demonstration of proficiency in this subject, your course work may be assessed for a grade.
CEUs and Proof of Completion
If you require a “Record of Course Completion” along with professional development credit in the form of Continuing Education Units (CEU’s), upon successfully completing the course, CEU’s and a record of course completion will be issued by The Institute upon your request.
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