19 May –
 23 May

Ås, Norway

NOVA PhD Course in Mixed-Effect Modelling for Forest Applications with examples in R

seminars, workshops |

Mixed-effect modelling is important for modelling based on data with various kinds of grouped structures. Examples include data from clustered sample plots in forest inventories, longitudinal data where observations have been made on the same objects at repeated occasions, and hierarchical data structures where, e.g., trees on plots are the study objects. Similar data structures are also common in other disciplines than forest inventory. The effect of groups can be modelled either fixed or random. The core of expected learning outcomes is which effect to choose in the modelling approach.

This course provides an introduction to the mixed-effect modelling theory starting with a theory on modelling with categorical variables through generalized linear mixed-effect modelling when non-gaussian assumptions are employed. The course gives examples of practical usage and intuition on to how the modelling methods are applied.
Upon successful completion of the course, participants will be able to understand general concepts of regression analysis with grouped data. The course is intended for students and researchers in ecology, natural resources, forestry, agriculture and environmental sciences.

More information and the registration form can be found at the following link: https://www.forestinventory.no/?p=3069

Facts

Time: 2025-05-19 - 2025-05-23
City: Ås, Norway
Organiser: Norwegian University of Life Sciences
Last signup date: 14 April 2025
Price: The course is free for all NOVA-affiliated participants. The registration fee for non-NOVA-affiliated participants is 4000 NOK.
Additional info:

Topics covered include:

Working with categorical data
Linear mixed-effect models
Mixed or random effects: which to apply
Non-linear mixed-effect models
Generalized linear mixed-effect models


Programme

The course includes a pre-course self-study through literature reading, and the post-course home exam. Completion of a pre-course exercise (distributed May 12th, due May 16th) is required.

Detailed plan for May 19-23:

Monday, May 19th:
9:00 – 12:00: Introduction to the course. A brief review of OLS regression and the use of dummy variables (chapter 4 from the course textbook).
12:00 – 13:00: Lunch
13:00 – 15:30: Exercises

Tuesday, May 20th:
9:00 – 12:00: Linear mixed-effects models (chapters 5 and 6)
12:00 – 13:00: Lunch
13:00 – 15:30: Exercises

Wednesday, May 21st:
9:00 – 12:00: Generalized linear mixed-effects models (chapters 2 and 8)
12:00 – 13:00: Lunch
13:00 – 15:30: Exercises

Thursday, May 22nd:
9:00 – 12:00: Nonlinear (mixed-effects) models (chapter 7), presented by Prof. Lauri Mehtätalo (open for everyone to join).
12:00 – 13:00: Lunch
13:00 – 15:30: Exercises
16:00 – 19:00: Social event

Friday, May 23rd:
9:00 – 12:00: “Mixed or Random Effects: Which to Apply?” Workshop (Prof. Lauri Mehtätalo and Prof. Emma Holmström will join the workshop).
12:00 – 13:00: Lunch
13:00 Course conclusion, travel back home

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