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Global Statistics - Composite Indices for International Comparisons

Approx. 16 hours to complete

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Course Summary

Learn how to analyze and interpret global data with this course on Global Statistics. Gain an understanding of statistical methods and techniques used in different countries and cultures.

Key Learning Points

Learn about the importance of cultural context in statistical analysis
Understand how to apply statistical techniques across different countries and cultures
Gain practical skills in data analysis and interpretation

Learning Outcomes

Ability to apply statistical techniques in a global context
Understanding of cultural context in statistical analysis
Practical skills in data analysis and interpretation

Prerequisites or good to have knowledge before taking this course

Basic knowledge of statistics
Familiarity with Excel or other data analysis software

Course Difficulty Level

Intermediate

Course Format

Online
Self-paced
Video lectures

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Description

The number of composite indices that are constructed and used internationally is growing very fast; but whilst the complexity of quantitative techniques has increased dramatically, the education and training in this area has been dragging and lagging behind. As a consequence, these simple numbers, expected to synthesize quite complex issues, are often presented to the public and used in the political debate without proper emphasis on their intrinsic limitations and correct interpretations.

In this course on global statistics, offered by the University of Geneva jointly with the ETH Zürich KOF, you will learn the general approach of constructing composite indices and some of resulting problems. We will discuss the technical properties, the internal structure (like aggregation, weighting, stability of time series), the primary data used and the variable selection methods. These concepts will be illustrated using a sample of the most popular composite indices. We will try to address not only statistical questions but also focus on the distinction between policy-, media- and paradigm-driven indicators.

Outline

Welcome module
Trailer
1.1.1 Welcome - introduction to the objectives and content of the course
Slides for Lesson 1 introduction to objectives and content of the course
Syllabus
List of Acronyms
List of References

Some introductory issues
2.1.1 Definition of indicators and composite indices
2.1.2 Need, use, pros and cons of composite indices
2.2.2 Statistical offices and the public demand, part I
2.2.3 Statistical offices and the public demand, part II
2.2.4 The demand for social indicators
2.2.5 The political demand, part I
2.2.6 The political demand, part II
2.3.1 Good practices for composite indices, part I
2.3.2 Good practices for composite indices, part II
2.4.1 Constructing composite indices: an overview
Slides for lesson 1 introduction, definition and first examples
Slides for Lesson 2 the demand for composite indices
Slides for Lesson 3 towards a quality framework
Slides for Lesson 4 the steps of constructing a composite index
Quizz Module 2

The steps of constructing a composite index
3.1.1 Developing an economic/statistical framework, part I
3.1.2 Developing an economic/statistical framework, part II
3.1.3 Selecting variables and data issues
3.2.1 A unifying framework for composite indices
3.2.2 The transformation functions
3.2.3 The elasticity of substitution
3.3.1 Choosing the weights, part I
3.3.2 Choosing the weights, part II
3.3.3 Choosing the weights, part III
3.4.1 Robustness of results
Slides for Lesson 1 developing an economic/statistical framework
Slides for Lesson 2 A unifying approach to construct composite indices
Slides for Lesson 3 Choosing the weights
Slides for Lesson 4 After the construction
Quizz Module 3

Globalization and Youth labour market indices (ETH Zurich/KOF)
4.1.1 Introduction
4.1.2 Introduction to the index and YLMI tool
4.1.3 Index components
4.1.4 Index aggregation and results
4.1.5 User perspective
4.2.1 Motivation of the KOF Globalization index
4.2.2 Selection of variables
4.2.3 Normalization, weighting and aggregation
4.2.4 Results
4.2.5 User perspective
Slides for Lesson 1 Youth Labour Market Index
KOF Study n°51 (optional)
KOF Study n°67 (optional)
KOF Study n°83 (optional)
Slides for Lesson 2 KOF Globalization Index
IMF 2007 Reaping the benefits of financial globalization (optional)
Kose et al., IMF 2009 (optional)
Schularick, JFE 2006 (optional)
Quizz Module 4

Export Potential Assessment (ITC)
5.1.1 Introduction
5.1.2 Global overview of the export potential assessment
5.1.3 Motivation and data treatment
5.1.4 Economic framework
5.1.5 First dimension: the supply side
5.1.6 Second dimension: the demand side
5.1.7 Third dimension: the bilateral trade relations, and results
5.1.8 Aggregation and final indicator construction
5.2.1 Overview of PDI, motivation and data treatment
5.2.2 The product space methodology
5.2.3 Dimensions of the index: supply and demand sides, and results
5.2.4 User perspective
Slides for Lesson 1 Export Potential Index
Export Potential Assessment Methodology (optional)
Slides for Lesson 2 Product Diversification Index
Quizz Module 5

Liner shipping connectivity indices (UNCTAD) and Human development index (UNDP)
6.1.1 Introduction
6.1.2 Introduction of the UNCTAD institution
6.1.3 Motivation and plan
6.1.4 LSCI: history and data
6.1.5 LSCI: component and computation
6.1.6 LSCI: stylized facts
6.1.7 LSBCI: motivation and data
6.1.8 LSBCI: components and computation
6.1.9 LSBCI: stylized facts
6.1.10 Conclusion remarks
6.1.11 User perspective
6.2.1 Introduction and motivation for the Human Development index
6.2.2 Indicators: selection and data issues
6.2.3 Aggregation, methods and reasoning
6.2.4 Interview of Flavio Comim: A response to the common criticisms of the HDI
6.2.6 Interview of Selim Jahan, part I: History of the Human Development index, and its major strengths and weaknesses
6.2.7 Interview of Selim Jahan, part II: Other indices in the Human Development Report (HDR), and future of the HDR
Conclusion
Slides for Lesson 1 Liner Shipping Connectivity Index
Liner Shipping connectivity as determinant of trade (Fugazza and Hoffmann) (optional)
Bilateral Liner shipping connectivity since 2006 (Fugazza and Hoffmann) (optional)
UNCTAD transport Newsletter 2007 (optional)
UNCTAD transport Newsletter 2005 (optional)
Slides for Lesson 2 Human Development Index
Human Development Report (technical notes) (optional)
Quizz Module 6

Summary of User Reviews

Learn global statistics from top universities and institutions with Coursera. Students rated this course highly, citing its engaging content and practical application in real-world scenarios. One key aspect that many users thought was good was the course's comprehensive coverage of statistical concepts and techniques.

Pros from User Reviews

Engaging content that keeps users interested
Practical application of statistical concepts in real-world scenarios
Comprehensive coverage of statistical techniques
Top-notch instruction from experienced professors and industry professionals

Cons from User Reviews

Some users found the course challenging and difficult to follow
Limited interaction with instructors and peers
Some users felt that the course lacked depth in certain areas

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Global Statistics - Composite Indices for International Comparisons

We will discuss the technical properties, the internal structure (like aggregation, weighting, stability of time series), the primary data used and the variable selection methods....

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