Week 10: Linear Regression

Learning Objectives

• 10A I can train and interpret linear regression models.
• 10B I can apply Ridge and Lasso regularization to reduce overfitting and explain the effect of the regularization parameter.
• 10C I can compute and interpret regression performance metrics — MAE, RMSE, and R².

Perspectival Reading

Reading: TBD

Reflection Questions

1. Linear regression assumes a particular relationship between variables. What gets hidden when the world doesn’t conform to this assumption?
2. What does it mean for a coefficient to be “significant”? Significant to whom, and for what purpose?
3. How might the choice to use a linear model reflect or reinforce existing patterns in society?

Materials

• Monday class
• Wednesday class