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HarvardX: Data Science: Linear Regression

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Learn how to use R to implement linear regression, one of the most common statistical modeling approaches in data science.

Data Science: Linear Regression
8 weeks
1–2 hours per week
Self-paced
Progress at your own speed
Free
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Starts Dec 3
Ends Dec 18
Starts Dec 3
Starts Apr 16, 2025

About this course

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Linear regression is commonly used to quantify the relationship between two or more variables. It is also used to adjust for confounding. This course, part ofourProfessional Certificate Program in Data Science, covers how to implement linear regression and adjust for confounding in practice using R.

In data science applications, it is very common to be interested in the relationship between two or more variables. The motivating case study we examine in this course relates to the data-driven approach used to construct baseball teams described in Moneyball. We will try to determine which measured outcomes best predict baseball runs by using linear regression.

We will also examine confounding, where extraneous variables affect the relationship between two or more other variables, leading to spurious associations. Linear regression is a powerful technique for removing confounders, but it is not a magical process. It is essential to understand when it is appropriate to use, and this course will teach you when to apply this technique.

At a glance

  • Language: English
  • Video Transcripts: اَلْعَرَبِيَّةُ, Deutsch, English, Español, Français, हिन्दी, Bahasa Indonesia, Português, Kiswahili, తెలుగు, Türkçe, 中文
  • Associated programs:
  • Associated skills:Statistical Modeling, Data Science, Linear Regression

What you'll learn

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  • How linear regression was originally developed by Galton
  • What is confounding and how to detect it
  • How to examine the relationships between variables by implementing linear regression in R

Frequently Asked Questions

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This course is part of Data Science Professional Certificate Program

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Expert instruction
9 skill-building courses
Self-paced
Progress at your own speed
1 year 5 months
2 - 3 hours per week

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