Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) is a statistical analysis technique which is used to find out the relationship between diverse variables used in the model. In this modelling, factor analysis and multiple regression analysis are used in a combination which makes AMOS the right statistical software for an SEM based research.
AMOS is specifically fit for structural equation models. It is an added module of SPSS software. However, it does not require SPSS statistics installed to start the work, which also makes it a “standalone software”. With the assistance of AMOS, the computation process for SEM becomes faster and the graphical drawing of models easier with the help of tools. For SEM coefficients, the AMOS software can provide following benefits:
01 Unweighted least squares
02 Maximum likelihood
03 Scale-free least squares
04 Asymptotically Distribution Criterion of Browne
Why Should You Choose StatWorkz?
StatWorkz is a team of experts who has been working with candidates from different universities in the US providing them on-time and reliable services for the development of SEM models through the use of AMOS software. We work remotely which enables us to provide solutions to your queries and get back to you within the shortest time interval. We go through the project and data analysis guidelines set by your particular university to make sure that our services do not harm your research in any way. Through our interactive sessions, you can get suggestions from our experts as well and discuss how to enhance the authenticity and input of your model and research work.
Icons Used For Model Construction In AMOS
In order to draw the SEM model in AMOS, the first step is to start AMOS and select “AMOS Graphic” after which the following icons can be used to start the process of model construction.
After opening the AMOS Graphic window, the first task is to attach data in AMOS for SEM analysis by selecting a file name.
Then a rectangular icon is used to draw the observed variable; whereas for the unobserved variable, a circular icon is used to draw.
Then the cause-effect relationship between the observed and unobserved variables is drawn with a single headed arrow.
Covariance between the variables, on the other hand, is drawn by a double headed arrow.
The error term icon in AMOS is used to draw the latent variable and it is present next to the unobserved variable.
By using the right click and selecting the object properties option, the variables can be named.
The Text Output In AMOS
The AMOS Graphic window does not show the result, it just shows the standardized and unstandardized regressions. To see the results, it is important to check the text output of the analysis, which includes:
- Variable Summary : This tells us how many variables have been used in the SEM Analysis and how many of them are observed and unobserved.
- Normality Accessing : The text output of AMOS can be tested through Kurtosis, Skewness and Mahalanobis d-squared test to access to normality of the data distribution in the SEM model.
- Estimates : The AMOS text output also provides an estimated analysis of residual, correlation, regression weight, covariance, standardized loading for factor, covariance, direct and indirect effect and total effect.
- Modification Index : The modification index(MI) helps in figuring out the reliability of the SEM model. In case, the MI value is large, more paths can be added in the SEM model.
- Model Fit : The model fit result tells about the fit indexes’ goodness which consist of RMR, GFI, BIC, TLI, RMSER, and so on.
- Error Message : In case there was a problem during the SEM model creation, like forgetting to draw the error term or presence of missing data, then the AMOS text output will either end up not calculating the data or give an error message.