An Introduction to Latent Class Analysis
Date:
08/09/2021
Organised by:
Ulster University
Presenter:
Professor Gary Adamson
Level:
Intermediate (some prior knowledge)
Contact:
Dr Orla McBride
+442870123987
o.mcbride@ulster.ac.uk
Venue: Online
Description:
Many important concepts in the disciplines of psychology and other social sciences, for example personality, quality of life, or prejudice, cannot be directly observed (i.e. they are hidden or latent constructs). Researchers often attempt to measure these concepts using standardised questionnaires, which are assumed to be imperfect indicators of the latent construct of interest. These observed indicators are assumed to be caused by the latent variable; therefore, covariation among these observed measures is expected. The patterns of interrelationships among observed measures can be explored and analysed using latent variable modelling. A number of latent variable models are used widely in the behavioural and social sciences – the most common of which is the factor analytic (FA) model. The main difference between the traditional FA model and the latent class (LC) model lies in the nature and distribution of the latent variable. For the FA model, the latent variable is continuous and normally distributed, whereas the LC model assumes as categorical latent variable with a multinomial distribution. Use of the LC model has mushroomed in recent years largely due to the increased tendency to collect data at either the nominal or ordinal level of measurement.
No prior knowledge of latent class analysis or Mplus is expected; however, attendees should have a basic understanding of the concept of using latent variables within psychological and social science research.
Course fees:
Student: £110 (more than one course £99)
Educational/charitable sector: £165 (more than one course £148.50)
Government/commercial sector: £200 (more than one course £180)
A 10% discount will be given where the booking is for more than one short course.
Attendance: 9:30am-4:30pm daily
Cost:
Student discount available. Multiple course booking available
Website and registration:
Region:
Northern Ireland
Keywords:
Latent Variable Models, Latent class analysis, Latent profile analysis
Related publications and presentations:
Latent Variable Models
Latent class analysis
Latent profile analysis