This is the second of a two-course sequence introducing the fundamentals of Bayesian statistics. It builds on the course Bayesian Statistics: From Concept to Data Analysis, which introduces Bayesian methods through use of simple conjugate models. Real-world data often require more sophisticated models to reach realistic conclusions. This course aims to expand our “Bayesian toolbox” with more general models, and computational techniques to fit them. In particular, we will introduce Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) methods, which allow sampling from posterior distributions that have no analytical solution. We will use the open-source, freely available software R (some experience is assumed, e.g., completing the previous course in R) and JAGS (no experience required). We will learn how to construct, fit, assess, and compare Bayesian statistical models to answer scientific questions involving continuous, binary, and count data. This course combines lecture videos, computer demonstrations, readings, exercises, and discussion boards to create an active learning experience. The lectures provide some of the basic mathematical development, explanations of the statistical modeling process, and a few basic modeling techniques commonly used by statisticians. Computer demonstrations provide concrete, practical walkthroughs. Completion of this course will give you access to a wide range of Bayesian analytical tools, customizable to your data.
This course is part of the Bayesian Statistics Specialization
Offered By
Bayesian Statistics SpecializationUniversity of California, Santa CruzAbout this Course
Skills you will gain
- Gibbs Sampling
- Bayesian Statistics
- Bayesian Inference
- R Programming
Offered by
University of California, Santa Cruz
UC Santa Cruz is an outstanding public research university with a deep commitment to undergraduate education. It’s a place that connects people and programs in unexpected ways while providing unparalleled opportunities for students to learn through hands-on experience.
Syllabus - What you will learn from this course
Statistical modeling and Monte Carlo estimation
Statistical modeling, Bayesian modeling, Monte Carlo estimation
Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC)
Metropolis-Hastings, Gibbs sampling, assessing convergence
Common statistical models
Linear regression, ANOVA, logistic regression, multiple factor ANOVA
Count data and hierarchical modeling
Poisson regression, hierarchical modeling
Reviews
- 5 stars83.10%
- 4 stars12.83%
- 3 stars2.25%
- 2 stars0.90%
- 1 star0.90%
TOP REVIEWS FROM BAYESIAN STATISTICS: TECHNIQUES AND MODELS
The best course I had in statistics. unlike many other courses the instructor does not ignore the underlying mathematics of the codes.
Very comprehensive and challenging course. The explanations/rationale could be done better In the statistical programming parts.
Outstanding, Excellent, Must do for statistician. I'm from Civil Engg Background easily capable to learn the course
One of the best designed courses. The material and videos are very precise and informative. The quiz questions and assignment are very enjoyable. Thank you !
About the Bayesian Statistics Specialization
This Specialization is intended for all learners seeking to develop proficiency in statistics, Bayesian statistics, Bayesian inference, R programming, and much more. Through four complete courses (From Concept to Data Analysis; Techniques and Models; Mixture Models; Time Series Analysis) and a culminating project, you will cover Bayesian methods — such as conjugate models, MCMC, mixture models, and dynamic linear modeling — which will provide you with the skills necessary to perform analysis, engage in forecasting, and create statistical models using real-world data.
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