Data Analysis II: Ecological Modeling using R (CSP4210)
Course Dates: July 25-29, 2011
Location: National Conservation Training Center (NCTC)
Shepherdstown, WV
Course Description/Course Overview:
The purpose of this course is to build a suite of tools for the purpose of
modeling biological and environmental data. To achieve effective
conservation planning or evaluation of management actions, it is becoming
increasingly important to monitor and model wildlife populations and the
habitats/environments in which they live. We begin the course discussing
simple linear regression with independent observations. Then progress into
the use of multiple linear regression, generalized linear models (Logistic,
Poisson, and Negative Binomial regression) for modeling presence/absence
and count data, trend analysis via linear and generalized linear mixed
models, and mean separation techniques. Other topics include variable
selection and screening, and model comparison techniques using AIC, BIC and
cross-validation. Emphasis is placed upon model development and
interpretation as it relates to informing management decisions,
understanding model assumptions and critical evaluation of competing
models. The general approach is a topic presentation by an instructor,
followed by an instructor-led computer exercise, followed by an
“independent” class computer exercise applying the concepts learned on
biological data using R. Consequently, the purpose of this course is to
enhance the scientific and analytical capacity of participants.
Participants are encouraged to discuss data in which they are currently
engaged with. Although this interaction is encouraged, the purpose of the
course is not of a ‘consulting’ nature.
Instructor: Dr. Timothy J. Robinson (University of Wyoming, Laramie
Campus)
Who Should Attend: The course is designed for individuals who are
competent in basic biology and are interested in strengthening their
ability to utilize statistical tools in research, management, and
decision-making. Participants in this course should have working knowledge
of topics taught in Data Analysis I (CSP4200). Applicants that have not
taken Data Analysis I must contact the course leader for approval.
Course Length: 4 ½ days/36 hours
Course Objectives: The objectives of this course are to (1) develop
skills for analyzing multiple linear regression, variable
selection, handling of multicollinearity, data
transformation, and outlier diagnostics; (2) develop
skills to use logistic regression as a means of modeling
presence-absence data; (3) interpret results of
statistical procedures; and (4) provide participants the
necessary background to be successful in Data Analysis
IIIA: Species Distribution Modeling using R.
Cost: There is no tuition fee for FWS, NPS, and BLM personnel. Tuition is
$1150 for non-FWS participants.
How to Apply: Register online at DOI Learn. Non-DOI employees should
contact Barbara Evans at 304-876-7451 or ([email protected]).
Questions: Please contact Dr. Joe W. Witt ([email protected]) or So Lan
Ching ([email protected]), Division of Conservation Science and Policy,
at 304/876-7447 or 304/876-7771.
