Randomized Controlled Trials: How Can We Know 'What Works'?
Critical Review 29(3) (Forthcoming)
39 Pages Posted: 3 Nov 2017
Date Written: November 1, 2017
Abstract
We attempt to map the limits of evidence-based policy through an interactive theoretical critique and empirical case-study. We outline the emergence of an experimental turn in EBP among British policymakers and the limited, broadly inductive, epistemic approach that underlies it. We see whether and how field professionals identify and react to these limitations through a case study of teaching professionals subject to a push to integrate research evidence into their practice. Results suggest that many of the challenges of establishing evidential warrant that EBP is supposed to streamline re-appear at the level of choice of locally effective policies and implementation.
Keywords: Behavioral Economics; Evidence-Based Policy; Meta-Analysis; Nudge; Nudging; Systematic Review; Education Policy
JEL Classification: D91; D80; C90
Suggested Citation: Suggested Citation
Nick Cowen (Contact Author)
New York University School of Law ( email )
40 Washington Square South
New York, NY 10012-1099
United States
HOME PAGE: http://www.law.nyu.edu/
