EPPS Math and Coding Camp 2024

The EPPS Math and Coding Camp is designed to offer first-year EPPS graduate students one week of training in fundamental Math and basic programming. We focus on preparing and inspiring students with applicable math and data analysis techniques for upcoming graduate research methods courses.

Title:

Math and Coding Camp for EPPS

Duration:

5-day intensive program

Objectives:

  1. Strengthen foundational mathematical and coding skills necessary for data-driven research.
  2. Prepare students for research in varied disciplines in EPPS.
  3. Motivate and engage students in mathematics and data-driven research to enhance their future academic and professional projects.
  4. Introduce tools and software for statistical analysis and data handling.

Curriculum Outline:

Day 1 & 2: Mathematical Foundations

  • Day 1: Core Mathematics
    • Morning: Linear Algebra essentials.
    • Afternoon: Calculus in Social Sciences
  • Day 2: Statistics and Probability
    • Morning: Basic Probability and Statistics.
    • Afternoon: Linear models

Day 3 to 5: Coding and Data Analysis

  • Day 3: Introduction to R and Stata
    • Morning: R Programming Basics.
    • Afternoon: Stata for Beginners - Data Management and Basic Procedures.
  • Day 4: Applied Coding Data Project
    • Morning: Data Visualization
    • Afternoon: Regression Analysis
  • Day 5: Project Day and Case Studies
    • Morning: Working on discipline-specific datasets (participants choose based on interest).
    • Afternoon: Presentations and Review Sessions.

Teaching Methods:

  • Interactive Lectures: Introduce each concept with real-world applications.
  • Hands-on Labs: Problem sets, including data manipulation and analysis.
  • Group Projects: Encourage collaboration on research questions.
  • Guest Lectures: Invitations to experienced researchers and professionals.

Resources Provided:

  • Course Materials: Comprehensive notes and online resource links.
  • Software Training: In-person lecture and optional online illustrations
  • Support: Continuous access to teaching assistants and faculty for guidance.

Assessment:

  • Practical Exercises: Daily tasks to ensure understanding of core concepts.
  • Group Project: Final day presentation to apply concepts to a chosen problem.

Venue:

  • EPPS labs equipped with computer and proprietory software (if needed)

This camp design aims to motivate interest in using math and coding techniques for future learning and research.