IDEM 310

Measuring and Modeling Population Processes

Start: 6 November 2013
End:  29 January 2014
Location:  MPI Rostock

Instructor: Dr. Peter Wagner

Course description:
This course provides an introduction to demographic methods and terminology, with a focus on the mathematics needed to develop a deeper understanding of demography. Based primarily on the book by Preston, Heuveline and Guillot, this course will emphasize the beauty of formal relationships. While first generally dealing with rates and probabilities, the Lexis diagram and the life table, single and multiple decrement processes, fertility and reproduction, and stable and nonstable populations, finally a number of relevant articles from the special collection “Formal Relationships” of  “Demographic Research” are being discussed.

Organization:
The course runs from 6 November 2013 to 29 January 2014 and will involve twelve 90-minute lectures.

Course prerequisites:
Students are expected to understand elementary calculus.

Examination:
There will be regular complementary exercises. An assignment will be distributed towards the end for passing the course. 

General Reading:
Preston, Samuel H, Patrick Heuveline and Michel Guillot. (2001). Demography: Measuring and Modeling Population Processes. Oxford: Blackwell Publishers.

How to apply:
For application instructions please visit the applications page.