ELE 3916 Introduction to Econometric Theory

ELE 3916 Introduction to Econometric Theory

Course code: 
ELE 3916
Department: 
Economics
Credits: 
7.5
Course coordinator: 
Steffen Grønneberg
Vasilis Sarafidis
Course name in Norwegian: 
Introduction to Econometric Theory
Product category: 
Bachelor
Portfolio: 
Bachelor - Programme Electives
Semester: 
2024 Spring
Active status: 
Active
Level of study: 
Bachelor
Teaching language: 
English
Course type: 
One semester
Introduction

In mathematical disciplines, there is always an answer to “why is that so?”, yet due to time-constraints, many presentations of financial and econometric tools are based around black boxes, even when solid mathematical arguments and assumptions led to their development. In this course, we take our time and work through the reasoning and motivation for some well-known and elementary tools in finance and economics that are based on statistics. Examples include the market beta, the Sharpe ratio, confidence intervals and omitted variable bias. We will see why such tools and formulas are the way they are and will use simulation and programming in R to see how they behave outside the conditions they were originally developed under.

Using simple mathematical tools, such as sums, the normal distribution, and central programming techniques such as the for-loop, we aim at understanding these foundational tools in a rather complete manner. This enables the student to much easier understand complex tools used both in later courses at higher levels as well as being able to responsibly use such tools in an industry-setting.

Learning outcomes - Knowledge

After completing the course, the student should have gained knowledge in the following topics:

  • The interpretation of foundational econometric tools, such as hypothesis tests, confidence intervals, Pearson correlation, an overview of some of the most important conceptual problems that surround these tools.
  • The robustness of statistical tools, or lack thereof.
  • Understanding of the problem of asymptotics: Most statistical tools apply only with large sets of data, but how large is large? Are there methods that work on paper but do not work in practice?
  • Knowledge of the mathematical arguments leading to the development of some central financial tools.
Learning outcomes - Skills

After completing the course, the student should have gained skills in the following topics:

  • Calculation rules of variances and covariances, their mathematical justification.
  • Practice in mathematical problem solving, with a focus on problems relevant for econometrics and finance.
  • Programming simulation experiments relevant for econometrics.
  • How different types of time variation may influence statistical methodology.
General Competence

Through working through econometric projects using mathematics and programming as tools, the student will gain a deeper understanding of econometrics, will reflect on the limitations of econometrics, the issue of subjectivity in reaching statistical conclusions, and the level of trust one may place in statistically based decisions. Further, simulation will be introduced as a tool to assess the validity of econometric techniques. The student will reflect on using large-sample techniques in finite samples, the assessment of econometric assumptions and the concept of robustness in econometrics.

Course content
  1. Foundational issues: (A) Averages, variance and covariances, Pearson correlation, ordinary least squares estimation. (B) Population and sample properties. Statistical inference, consistency, and bias.
  2. Topics in linear regression, including basic issues in time series analysis and panel data.
Teaching and learning activities

The course is based on a learning-by-doing approach: There will be just one hour of lectures each week, and the remaining course time is spent on classes helping you be able to solve problems, with a focus on understanding.

Examples of time series models and panel data models will be used during the course, but we will not develop systematic theory on time series. Previous exposure to time series models or panel data is an advantage but not a prerequisite.

Previous programming experience in R is advantageous but not required, and the programming techniques we require (looping, vectorial operations, and random number generation) will be developed during the course. Some illustrations will use financial datasets.

Software tools
R/R-Studio
Additional information

.

Qualifications

Higher Education Entrance Qualification

Disclaimer

Deviations in teaching and exams may occur if external conditions or unforeseen events call for this.

Required prerequisite knowledge

A basic course in statistics and mathematics.

Previous exposure to time series models is an advantage but not a prerequisite.

Previous programming experience in R is advantageous but not required. 

Assessments
Assessments
Exam category: 
Submission
Form of assessment: 
Written submission
Weight: 
40
Grouping: 
Group (1 - 3)
Duration: 
1 Week(s)
Comment: 
Home exam. An oral defence may be required. All exams must be passed to obtain a final grade in the course.
Exam code: 
ELE 39161
Grading scale: 
ECTS
Resit: 
Examination when next scheduled course
Exam category: 
School Exam
Form of assessment: 
Written School Exam - pen and paper
Exam/hand-in semester: 
First Semester
Weight: 
60
Grouping: 
Individual
Support materials: 
  • BI-approved exam calculator
  • Simple calculator
  • Bilingual dictionary
Duration: 
3 Hour(s)
Comment: 
All exams must be passed to obtain a final grade in the course.
Exam code: 
ELE 39162
Grading scale: 
ECTS
Resit: 
Examination when next scheduled course
Type of Assessment: 
Ordinary examination
All exams must be passed to get a grade in this course.
Total weight: 
100
Student workload
ActivityDurationComment
Teaching
36 Hour(s)
Lectures and blended learning with projects for students.
Feedback activities and counselling
9 Hour(s)
Student's own work with learning resources
75 Hour(s)
Group work / Assignments
62 Hour(s)
Examination
15 Hour(s)
Work related to the home exam.
Examination
3 Hour(s)
Final exam
Sum workload: 
200

A course of 1 ECTS credit corresponds to a workload of 26-30 hours. Therefore a course of 7,5 ECTS credit corresponds to a workload of at least 200 hours.