Econometrics for Education Policy

Centre for Public Policy Evaluation Issues Paper No.16

41 Pages Posted: 16 Sep 2013

See all articles by K. Stuart Birks

K. Stuart Birks

Massey University - Massey Business School

Ivan Snook

Institute of Education

Jane Prochnow

Massey University - Institute of Education

Peter Rawlins

Massey University - College of Humanities & Social Sciences

John O'Neill

Institute of Education

Date Written: September 16, 2013

Abstract

Each discipline has its own framing and conventions. Economics emphasises the identification of key variables and relationships and their estimation using quantitative research methods, with common reliance on econometrics. The approaches shape what is observed and any resulting policy recommendations.

This paper considers an area of education policy, namely the use of teacher value added measures to improve education outputs and increase per capita GDP. The arguments, approaches and key variables are assessed. The authors combine an understanding of economics methodology and education research and practice to give a nuanced understanding of the policy area. While this paper is written primarily for an economics audience, it can be read in combination with a publication from the Education Policy Response Group which develops the education material underpinning the interpretation given here.

The paper then makes generalised points about the use of econometric techniques and some reserves, qualifications and adjustments that can be helpful when applying findings to real world issues.

Keywords: Education policy, value added measures, econometrics

JEL Classification: C53, H52, I21, I28

Suggested Citation

Birks, K. Stuart and Snook, Ivan and Prochnow, Jane and Rawlins, Peter and O'Neill, John, Econometrics for Education Policy (September 16, 2013). Centre for Public Policy Evaluation Issues Paper No.16, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=2326325

K. Stuart Birks (Contact Author)

Massey University - Massey Business School ( email )

New Zealand

Ivan Snook

Institute of Education ( email )

New Zealand

Jane Prochnow

Massey University - Institute of Education ( email )

Private Bag 11 222
Massey University
Palmerston North, 4442
New Zealand

Peter Rawlins

Massey University - College of Humanities & Social Sciences ( email )

New Zealand

John O'Neill

Institute of Education ( email )

New Zealand

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