Bayesian Latent Variable Modeling in R with {blavaan}

[Info]
This talk assumes some prior knowledge about latent variable modeling with {lavaan}. You can get up to speed with latent variable modeling with one of our previous meetups: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VT4Hz4XgkN8

[Abstract]
R package {blavaan} is an interface between package {lavaan} and MCMC software (JAGS and Stan), allowing users to specify a {lavaan} model that is then automatically estimated via JAGS or Stan. In the presentation, Ed will provide an overview of {blavaan} and its use in practice. We will see some internal workings of {blavaan}, some features that are unique to {blavaan}, and some detail on estimation of models with ordinal observed variables. We will also see a variety of examples that illustrate the package's functionality, and we will consider future directions for the package.

[Bio]
Ed Merkle is the creator of {blavaan}, and a Professor in the Department of Psychological Sciences at the University of Missouri, USA. His research involves psychometric modeling and forecasting, with an emphasis on open source computing. His website can be found at https://ecmerkle.github.io/

[Note]
The talk will be recorded and shared on the Oslo useR! channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/UseROslo