Quasi-experiments I
Overview
Experiments are helpful tools in trying to determine whether a policy works. But in many cases experimentation is unethical or unfeasible. In these contexts, researchers can try to leverage features of naturally occurring data that provide comparable levels of control. These are called quasi-experiments because we are assuming we can analyze them as if they were experiments.
The lab introduces regression discontinuity designs, a common answer strategy for policies that use deterministic thresholds to determine eligibility.
Reading
Hoekstra, Mark. 2009. “The Effect of Attending the Flagship State University on Earnings: A Discontinuity-Based Approach.” The Review of Economics and Statistics 91 (4): 717-724
Slides
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