Model Selection and Multimodel Inference in Ecology

Catalog description

This course will introduce students to the theory and practice of model selection and multimodel inference in ecology. Both techniques are widely used in ecology, natural resources, and related disciplines and have become essential tools in gaining reliable inference from data. A substantial number of novel model selection techniques have emerged in recent years, and are accompanied by their unique drawbacks and potential pitfalls. The objective of this class if to provide students with background knowledge to select the appropriate model selection and inferential tools and interpret the results with confidence and accuracy. The course will comprise a mixture of short lectures, lab exercises, and discussions of the primary literature. There are no course prerequisites, though students are encouraged to have successfully completed at least one semester of graduate-level statistics.