Speaker: Daniele Macuglia (马大年), Assistant Professor, Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, Peking University

Time: 9:00-9:50 a.m., May 31, 2022 GMT+8

Venue: Tencent Meeting ID: 174-972-833 Password: 202205

Abstract:

Historians involved in computational quantitative research typically find themselves dealing with multiple exploratory variables within complex methodological situations. In this lecture we will reflect on the concept of correlation in order to analyze, through specific historical examples, multiple relationships in quantitative historical research. Going beyond the potential offered by simple linear regression, we will discuss the coefficient of multiple determination, partial regression coefficients, standardized beta coefficients, the Ballantine for simple and multiple regression, as well as partial and multiple correlation. The goal will be to review some basic concepts that may be useful to digital humanities students with a view to linking with historical research methods. It is recommended that class participants have a good understanding of the concepts of correlation and the problems associated with assessing causality between quantitative variables in data analysis and data analytics.

Biography:

Daniele Macuglia is Assistant Professor in the Department of History of Science, Technology and Medicine (Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies) at Peking University. Born in Italy, he graduated in physics from the University of Pavia while a student at the University School for Advanced Studies IUSS. He holds a PhD in conceptual and historical studies of science from the University of Chicago.

Background Info:

This talk is a guest lecture for the undergraduate course "Data Storytelling" hosted by Pu Yan. It is also part of the speech series for the celebration of the 75th anniversary of the Department of Information Management, Peking University.

Source: PKU_IFC