Análise de Dados e Avaliação de Sistemas

Objectives

This curricular unit aims at complementing the students training in quantitative methods and models particularly important for the areas of Engineering more directly related to Planning, Management and Transports. The focus is placed on multivariate models (where each entity is characterized by multiple attributes) directed towards data analysis and statistical inference or multi-criteria evaluation and decision. The main objectives are to promote interest for the utilization of these models, to illustrate their potentialities and limitations and to develop skills in their application to real-world problems.

Syllabus

I. Multivariate data analysis/statistical models I.1. Multivariate analysis in perspective: objectives, potentialities and application domains I.2. Dependence models: multiple regression and correlation I.3. Data reduction (synthesis) and data structure identification models: principal components and factorial analysis I.4. Classification models: cluster analysis II. Multicriteria evaluation and decision models II.1 Paradigms of multi-attribute evaluation and decision problems II.2. Multi-attribute decision problems structuring II.3 Local evaluation: partial preferences modelling and value functions II.4. Aggregation and global evaluation: compensatory and non- compensatory methods. III. Systems' performance evaluation III.1 Paradigms and basic concepts III.2.Partial indicators and global and systemic measures of performance evaluation III.3 Parametric and non-parametric methodologies; the Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) method; BCC and CCR models; constant and increasing yields

Prerequisites

Basic background on Statistics

Cross Competence Component

This course, particularly in the group project work component but also in approaches to the formulation and resolution of problems in classes and final examination, should contribute to the development of soft skills in “Critical and Innovative Thinking” (particularly with regard to structured and innovative approaches to problem solving, but also of strategic thinking (in problem formulation), critical thinking (namely in the analysis of results) and creativity), “Interpersonal Skills” (written and oral communication, teamwork and leadership), “Intrapersonal Skills” (productivity and time management, stress management, pro-activity and initiative) and “Information and Media Literacy” (use of computer tools from the user's perspective, structuring and formatting of documents/reports). The assessment weight associated with these skills should be around 15%.

Laboratorial Component

Use of specialized statistical software, representing about 20% of the contact hours

Programming And Computing Component

Exploring data analysis facilities provided by EXCEL and by specialized statistical software for the project work, to obtain results that must be analyzed for drawing conclusions and recommendations

Ethical Principles

All members of a group are responsible for the group's work. In any assessment, every students shall honestly disclose any help received and sources used. In an oral assessment, every students shall be able to present and answer questions about the entire assignment and solution.