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Sensitivity analyses for clustered data: An illustration from a large-scale clustered randomized controlled trial in education

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  • Abe, Yasuyo
  • Gee, Kevin A.

Abstract

In this paper, we demonstrate the importance of conducting well-thought-out sensitivity analyses for handling clustered data (data in which individuals are grouped into higher order units, such as students in schools) that arise from cluster randomized controlled trials (RCTs). This is particularly relevant given the rise in rigorous impact evaluations that use cluster randomized designs across various fields including education, public health and social welfare. Using data from a recently completed cluster RCT of a school-based teacher professional development program, we demonstrate our use of four commonly applied methods for analyzing clustered data. These methods include: (1) hierarchical linear modeling (HLM); (2) feasible generalized least squares (FGLS); (3) generalized estimating equations (GEE); and (4) ordinary least squares (OLS) regression with cluster-robust (Huber–White) standard errors. We compare our findings across each method, showing how inconsistent results – in terms of both effect sizes and statistical significance – emerged across each method and our analytic approach to resolving such inconsistencies.

Suggested Citation

  • Abe, Yasuyo & Gee, Kevin A., 2014. "Sensitivity analyses for clustered data: An illustration from a large-scale clustered randomized controlled trial in education," Evaluation and Program Planning, Elsevier, vol. 47(C), pages 26-34.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:epplan:v:47:y:2014:i:c:p:26-34
    DOI: 10.1016/j.evalprogplan.2014.07.001
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    8. Peter Z. Schochet, "undated". "Statistical Power for Random Assignment Evaluations of Education Programs," Mathematica Policy Research Reports 6749d31ad72d4acf988f7dce5, Mathematica Policy Research.
    9. White, Halbert, 1982. "Maximum Likelihood Estimation of Misspecified Models," Econometrica, Econometric Society, vol. 50(1), pages 1-25, January.
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    Cited by:

    1. Katharine S. Gries & Dean A. Regier & Scott D. Ramsey & Donald L. Patrick, 2017. "Utility Estimates of Disease-Specific Health States in Prostate Cancer from Three Different Perspectives," Applied Health Economics and Health Policy, Springer, vol. 15(3), pages 375-384, June.
    2. Gee, Kevin A., 2015. "Achieving gender equality in learning outcomes: Evidence from a non-formal education program in Bangladesh," International Journal of Educational Development, Elsevier, vol. 40(C), pages 207-216.

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