June 8 – 17 
This 3-day course will provide the theoretical background to Bayesian modeling with applications to animal health including evaluation of test accuracy, prevalence estimation and logistic regression. Participants will obtain practical hands-on experience using OpenBUGS software and other tools (Betabuster and sliders) to apply the methods to real-life examples. Specific topics covered on the first day 1 include: introduction to probability using diagnostic testing examples (perfect and imperfect test examples), laws of probability, Bayes’ theorem, probability distributions, prior distributions likelihood functions, and introduction to simulation and Markov-chain Monte Carlo methods for simulating priors and posteriors. On days 2 and 3, models for estimating accuracy of single and multiple independent and dependent tests, prevalence estimation including hierarchical models, logistic regression with random effects and logistic regression when imperfect tests are used to measure outcomes will be discussed.
Dr. Ian Dohoo Dr. Henrik Stryhn Dr. Javier Sanchez
The 5-day course is designed to provide participants with the knowledge and skills required to successfully fit multilevel models to both continuous data (linear models) and discrete data (emphasis on logistic and Poisson models). The presentation of theoretical background material is limited to that which is required for a reasonable understanding of the methods employed. Specific topics covered in the course include: introduction to multilevel/hierarchical data, mixed models for continuous data, mixed models for discrete data, model evaluation (diagnostics), analysis of repeated measures and alternative approaches to dealing with clustered data (including Bayesian methods). The main software used for the instruction is MLwiN, but code for fitting models in additional software packages (including Stata and R) will also be provided.
For each module, the following registration fees apply (amounts are in $Cdn and include taxes and administration fees):
MODULE 1 - Bayesian Latent Class Modelling in Animal Health:
Participant Up to April 29th After April 29th
Student* 500 600
Non-student 750 850
MODULE 2 - Introduction to Multilevel Modelling:
Participant Up to April 29th After April 29th
Student* 700 800
Non-student 1100 1200
*Proof of enrollment in a graduate program at a university (not necessarily UPEI) required
A discount of 10% will be offered for participants taking both Module 1 and Module 2. Refunds will be allowed before May 27th subject to 20% of administration fee.
Click on the Eventbrite logo for registering to Epi on the Island Summer Courses 2016. 
Note: In order to get the 10% discount if taking the two courses, be sure to enter the following code: 2weeks at the time of registration - don't forget to click Apply - under promotional code in the online registration webpage.
Participants will have to book their own accommodations. Below you will find information on places to stay by visiting links to our Tourism PEI website and on campus residences. Please contact the hotel or residence directly to book your accommodation.
The Tourism PEI (http://www.tourismpei.com/index.php3) website will provide you with links to a variety of accommodations across the Island as well as information on places to eat, festivals and events and things to do during your stay.
The UPEI Campus offers residence rooms to conference participants. Choose from one of three UPEI residences, each with its own unique style and amenities. Residence accommodations include free parking, local telephone access, a bed linen and towel exchange service, and 24 hour security. (http://www.upei.ca/conference/accommodations)
UPEI Accommodation building: Bill and Denise Andrew Hall
Epi on the Island 2015
For further inquiries, please contact Jenny Yu at jennyyu@upei.ca.
We look forward to welcoming you to beautiful Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, this summer!
