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Course profile

Introductory Econometrics (ECON2300)

Study period
Sem 1 2025
Location
St Lucia
Attendance mode
In Person

Course overview

Study period
Semester 1, 2025 (24/02/2025 - 21/06/2025)
Study level
Undergraduate
Location
St Lucia
Attendance mode
In Person
Units
2
Administrative campus
St Lucia
Coordinating unit
Economics School

Introductory applied econometric course for students with basic economic statistics background. Topics covered include: economic models and role of econometrics, linear regression with single and multiple regressors, hypothesis testing and confidence intervals, dummy variables and nonlinear regression functions, internal and external validity of regression models, panel data models, binary response models, instrumental variable regressions, experiments and quasi-experiments, as well as basic time series analysis. Practical problems are solved using the R econometrics software.

This is an introductory course in applied econometrics. It reviews and builds on the simple linear regression model taught in introductory statistics courses such as ECON1310 and ECON1320. The models studied in this course have numerous applications in economics, finance, marketing, management and related areas.ᅠA feature of the course is the way examples and exercises are drawn from these different discipline areas to illustrate the usefulness and limitations of certain econometric/statistical techniques. Hands-on experience in applying these techniques is gained through the use of R, an econometric computer software package available in the BEL computer laboratories. Note also that students can freely download R at [https://www.r-project.org].

Course requirements

Assumed background

In addition to the content of pre-requisite courses, knowledge of elementary differential calculus and basic linear algebra is also assumed.

Prerequisites

You'll need to complete the following courses before enrolling in this one:

ECON1310; (For BInfTech students ECON1010 + STAT2004)

Recommended prerequisites

We recommend completing the following courses before enrolling in this one:

ECON1010, ECON1020 + ECON1050

Course contact

Course coordinator

Professor Alicia Rambaldi

ECON2300@uq.edu.au

Contact Hours Per Week: LEC 2Hours/Week TUT 2 Hours/Week.

Please see Course's Blackboard site for full consultation timetable for lecturer and tutors.

School enquiries

School Enquiries, School of Economics

All enquiries regarding student and academic administration (i.e. non-course content information, e.g., class allocation, timetables, extension to assessment due date, etc.) should be directed toᅠenquiries@economics.uq.edu.au.ᅠ

Enquiries relating specifically to course content should be directed to ECON2300@uq.edu.au.

Course staff

Lecturer

Tutor

Ms April Deng
Mr Davis Dingle
Mr Dominic Byrne
Mr Francisco Tavares Garcia
Mr Ryan Leung
Mr Clancy McMahon
Mr Matt Allison

Timetable

The timetable for this course is available on the UQ Public Timetable.

Additional timetable information

Lectures commence in Week 1

Tutorials commence in Week 2

Please see the Learning Activities section of this Course Profile for the timetabling implications of public holidays.

Important Dates:

·        Public Holidays: Fri 18 April (Good Friday), Mon 5ᅠMay (Labour Day).

·        Mid-Semester Break: 21ᅠApril - 25ᅠApril. Semester 1 classes recommence on Mon 28ᅠApril.

Students should refer to the timetable prior to the commencement of classes to ensure that they have the most up to date information, as from time to time late room changes may occur.

Aims and outcomes

The aims of this course are to

  • introduce a range of single-equation econometric models and estimation methods commonly used in empirical economics research work (by businesses, government agencies, consultants, etc.);
  • provide an understanding of which models and methods should be used in particular contexts;
  • provide experience in using R software to conduct empirical econometric analyses; and
  • provide the skills necessary to read and understand basic econometric work reported by others to support decision making in business, public policy, etc.ᅠ

Learning outcomes

After successfully completing this course you should be able to:

LO1.

Apply the concept of linear regression to data and interpret results.

LO2.

Critically evaluate underlying theories, concepts, assumptions and arguments in econometrics.

LO3.

Conduct inference using OLS with one variable and multiple variables in analysing real-world data.

LO4.

Extend the linear regression framework to FE estimators, instrumental variables, and nonlinear regression analysis in the estimation of econometric models.

LO5.

Communicate (with potential users) econometric analysis by tables and figures with proper interpretation and policy recommendations.

Assessment

Assessment summary

Category Assessment task Weight Due date
Quiz Problem Solving, Data Analysis and Short Report
  • Online
25% 7 best out of 10

Weeks 3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12

Online Periodic Assessments Throughout the Semester

Project Project: Assignment and Brief Research Report
  • Online
25%

29/04/2025 4:00 pm

The project can be submitted at anytime before the due date.

Examination Final Exam
  • Hurdle
  • Identity Verified
  • In-person
50%

End of Semester Exam Period

7/06/2025 - 21/06/2025

A hurdle is an assessment requirement that must be satisfied in order to receive a specific grade for the course. Check the assessment details for more information about hurdle requirements.

Assessment details

Problem Solving, Data Analysis and Short Report

  • Online
Mode
Written
Category
Quiz
Weight
25% 7 best out of 10
Due date

Weeks 3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12

Online Periodic Assessments Throughout the Semester

Learning outcomes
L01, L03

Task description

Online quizzes (via Blackboard) throughout the semester from Week 3, exact dates will be announced on Blackboard. There will be in total of 10 quizzes.

1) Five will consist of multiple-choice and short-answer questions related to the material covered in lectures and tutorials. 

2) Five will consist of R exercises related to the material covered in lectures and tutorials.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Translation (MT) are emerging tools that may support students in completing this assessment task. Students may appropriately use AI and/or MT in completing this assessment task. Students must clearly reference any use of AI or MT in each instance.

A failure to reference generative AI or MT use may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.

Submission guidelines

Online via Blackboard. No late submission will be accepted.

Deferral or extension

You cannot defer or apply for an extension for this assessment.

Late submission

You will receive a mark of 0 if this assessment is submitted late.

Project: Assignment and Brief Research Report

  • Online
Mode
Written
Category
Project
Weight
25%
Due date

29/04/2025 4:00 pm

The project can be submitted at anytime before the due date.

Other conditions
Student specific.

See the conditions definitions

Learning outcomes
L01, L03, L05

Task description

You are expected to formulate hypothesis relevant to a research project. Analyse the data using techniques covered under the Learning Objectives as indicated above. Submit a research report summarising your findings and offering policy advice based on your findings.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Translation (MT) are emerging tools that may support students in completing this assessment task. Students may appropriately use AI and/or MT in completing this assessment task. Students must clearly reference any use of AI or MT in each instance.

A failure to reference generative AI or MT use may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.

Submission guidelines

Students are required to submit an electronic copy through the course webpage (Blackboard).

Deferral or extension

You may be able to apply for an extension.

The maximum extension allowed is 7 days. Extensions are given in multiples of 24 hours.

Requests for the granting of extensions must be submitted through my.UQ: Applying for an extension - my.UQ - University of Queensland with supporting documentation before the submission due date/time. If an extension is approved, the new agreed date for submission will be noted on the application and the student notified through their student email. Extensions cannot exceed the number of days you suffered from a medical condition, as stated on the medical certificate.

Extensions are limited to 7 calendar days to ensure timely feedback to other students.

Late submission

A penalty of 10% of the maximum possible mark will be deducted per 24 hours from time submission is due for up to 7 days. After 7 days, you will receive a mark of 0.

Final Exam

  • Hurdle
  • Identity Verified
  • In-person
Mode
Written
Category
Examination
Weight
50%
Due date

End of Semester Exam Period

7/06/2025 - 21/06/2025

Other conditions
Time limited.

See the conditions definitions

Learning outcomes
L01, L02, L03, L04, L05

Task description

This is a closed book exam (one A4 single sided sheet of written notes permitted) to be sat in a designated examination room at the St Lucia campus. The exam is comprehensive. However, emphasis will be on:

  • Regression with Panel Data
  • Regression with Binary Dependent Variable
  • Instrumental Variables Regression
  • Experiments and Quasi-Experiments

Please note UQ's policy on approved calculators that can be brought into examination rooms: https://my.uq.edu.au/services/manage-my-program/exams-and-assessment/sitting-exam/approved-calculators

Hurdle requirements

- You must achieve at least 45% on this item to pass the course. If you obtained at least 50% in your combined Quizzes and Project mark, you will be given a grade of 3 in the event that you do not achieve 45% on this item. - Marks will be shown on the paper next to each question. Partial marks will be awarded for incorrect numerical answers, provided correct methods/formulas have been used.

Exam details

Planning time 10 minutes
Duration 120 minutes
Calculator options

(In person) Casio FX82 series only or UQ approved and labelled calculator

Open/closed book Closed Book examination - specified written materials permitted
Materials

One A4 sheet of handwritten or typed notes, single sided, is permitted

Non-electronic bilingual dictionary

Exam platform Paper based
Invigilation

Invigilated in person

Submission guidelines

Deferral or extension

You may be able to defer this exam.

Requests for deferring the final examination must be submitted through my.UQ: Applying for Deferral - my.UQ - University of Queensland.

Course grading

Full criteria for each grade is available in the Assessment Procedure.

Grade Cut off Percent Description
1 (Low Fail) 0% - 29%

Absence of evidence of achievement of course learning outcomes.

2 (Fail) 30% - 46%

Minimal evidence of achievement of course learning outcomes.

3 (Marginal Fail) 47% - 49%

Demonstrated evidence of developing achievement of course learning outcomes

4 (Pass) 50% - 64%

Demonstrated evidence of functional achievement of course learning outcomes.

5 (Credit) 65% - 74%

Demonstrated evidence of proficient achievement of course learning outcomes.

6 (Distinction) 75% - 84%

Demonstrated evidence of advanced achievement of course learning outcomes.

7 (High Distinction) 85% - 100%

Demonstrated evidence of exceptional achievement of course learning outcomes.

Additional course grading information

A student's final overall end of semester percentage mark will be rounded to determine their final grade. For example, 64.5% rounds to 65%, while 64.4% rounds to 64%.

Supplementary assessment

Supplementary assessment is available for this course.

Additional assessment information

Plagiarism

The School of Economics is committed to reducing the incidence of plagiarism. Further information on plagiarism and how to avoid an allegation of plagiarism is available in this course profile under Policies & Procedures. Please refer to the Academic Integrity Module (AIM). It is strongly recommended that you complete the AIM if you have not already done so.

SUBMISSION OF QUIZZES

Online quizzes will be accessible through Blackboard at the beginning of the week that they are due to be submitted. All quizzes must be submitted through Blackboard by the due date and time specified. No late submissions will be accepted.

Learning resources

You'll need the following resources to successfully complete the course. We've indicated below if you need a personal copy of the reading materials or your own item.

Library resources

Find the required and recommended resources for this course on the UQ Library website.

Additional learning resources information

Wooldridge, J.M. (2006) Introductory Econometrics: A Modern Approach, 5thᅠed.ᅠ Mason Oh.ᅠ South-Western.ᅠ HB139 .W63 2013.

Ramanathan, R. (2002) Introductory Econometrics with Applications, 5th ed. ᅠMason Oh.ᅠ South-Western.ᅠ HB139 .R337 2002.

Kennedy, P.ᅠ(2003)ᅠA Guide to Econometrics, 5th ed.ᅠ Cambridge, Mass.ᅠ MIT Press.ᅠ HB139 .K45 2003.

Studenmund, A.H.ᅠ(2006) Using Econometrics, A Practical Guide, 5th ed.ᅠ Boston, Mass.ᅠ Pearson Higher Education/Addison Wesley. HB139 .S795 2006.

Gujarati, D. (2003) Basic Econometrics.ᅠBoston. ᅠMcGraw-Hill.ᅠ HB139 .G84 2003.

Learning activities

The learning activities for this course are outlined below. Learn more about the learning outcomes that apply to this course.

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Learning period Activity type Topic
Week 1

(24 Feb - 02 Mar)

Lecture

Introduction

Introduction to econometrics; review of statistical concepts; introduction to R.

Learning outcomes: L02

Week 2

(03 Mar - 09 Mar)

Lecture

Linear Regression with One Regressor

the linear regression model; estimating the coefficients; measure of fit; the least squares assumptions; sampling distribution of the OLS estimator.

Learning outcomes: L01

Week 3

(10 Mar - 16 Mar)

Lecture

Single Regressor Models: Inference

testing hypotheses about one of the regression coefficients; confidence intervals for a regression coefficient; dummy variable regressors; heteroskedasticity and homoskedasticity; foundations of OLS; t-statistics and sample size.

Learning outcomes: L02, L03

Week 4

(17 Mar - 23 Mar)

Lecture

Linear Regression with Multiple Regressors

omitted variable bias; the multiple regression model; the OLS estimator in multiple regression; measure of fit in multiple regression; the least squares assumption in multiple regression; the distribution of the OLS estimator in the multiple regression; multicollinearity.

Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03

Week 5

(24 Mar - 30 Mar)

Lecture

Multiple Regression: Inference

hypothesis tests and confidence intervals for single coefficient; tests of joint hypotheses; testing single restrictions involving multiple coefficients; model specification for multiple regression; case study: test score data.

Learning outcomes: L02, L03

Week 6

(31 Mar - 06 Apr)

Lecture

Nonlinear Regression Functions

a general strategy for modeling nonlinear regression functions; nonlinear functions of a single independent variable; interactions between independent variables; case study: nonlinear effects on test scores.

Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03

Week 7

(07 Apr - 13 Apr)

Lecture

Assessing Studies Based on Multiple Regression

internal and external validity; threats to internal validity of multiple regression analysis; internal and external validity when the regression is used for forecasting; case study: test scores and class size.

Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L05

Week 8

(14 Apr - 20 Apr)

No student involvement (Breaks, information)

Good Friday Week

Friday18 April is Good Friday Public Holiday. No Lectures or Tutorials that week. Quiz 6 and Project Due by Thursday at 4PM.

Sub-activity: Quiz 6 --- Due on Thursday, 4 PM

Mid-sem break

(21 Apr - 27 Apr)

No student involvement (Breaks, information)

Mid-Semester Break

No student involvement (Breaks, information)

Anzac Day

Friday 25 April is Anzac Day Public Holiday

Week 9

(28 Apr - 04 May)

Lecture

Regression with Panel Data

description and examples of panel data; panel data with two time periods; fixed effects regression; regression with time fixed effects; the fixed effects regression assumptions and standard errors for fixed effects regression; case study: drunk driving laws and traffic deaths.

Sub-activity: Project Due on Tuesday 29 April, 2024 at 4PM

Learning outcomes: L03, L04, L05

Week 10

(05 May - 11 May)

Lecture

Regression with a Binary Dependent Variable

binary dependent variable and the linear probability model; probit and logit regression; estimation and inference in the probit and logit models; case study: Boston HDMA data.

Learning outcomes: L03, L04, L05

Week 11

(12 May - 18 May)

Lecture

Instrumental Variables Regression

the IV estimator with a single regressor and a single instrument; the general IV regression model; checking instrument validity; finding valid instruments; case study: demand for cigarettes.

Learning outcomes: L03, L04, L05

Week 12

(19 May - 25 May)

Lecture

Experiments and Quasi-Experiments

potential outcomes, causal effects, and idealized experiments; threats to validity of experiments; quasi-experiments and potential problems; case study: effect of class size reductions.

Learning outcomes: L03, L04, L05

Week 13

(26 May - 01 Jun)

Lecture

Big Data and Review

Learning outcomes: L04

Policies and procedures

University policies and procedures apply to all aspects of student life. As a UQ student, you must comply with University-wide and program-specific requirements, including the:

Learn more about UQ policies on my.UQ and the Policy and Procedure Library.