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Using Propensity Scoring to Estimate Program-Related Subgroup Impacts in Experimental Program Evaluations

Author

Listed:
  • Peter Z. Schochet
  • John Burghardt

    (Mathematica Policy Research, Inc.)

Abstract

This article discusses the use of propensity scoring in experimental program evaluations to estimate impacts for subgroups defined by program features and participants' program experiences. The authors discuss estimation issues and provide specification tests. They also discuss the use of an overlooked data collection design—obtaining predictions that program intake staff make about applicants' likely program assignments and experiences—that could improve the quality of matched comparison samples. They demonstrate the effectiveness of this approach in producing credible subgroup findings using data from a large-scale experimental evaluation of Job Corps, the nation's largest federal education and training program for disadvantaged youths.

Suggested Citation

  • Peter Z. Schochet & John Burghardt, 2007. "Using Propensity Scoring to Estimate Program-Related Subgroup Impacts in Experimental Program Evaluations," Evaluation Review, , vol. 31(2), pages 95-120, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:evarev:v:31:y:2007:i:2:p:95-120
    DOI: 10.1177/0193841X06288736
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. LaLonde, Robert J, 1986. "Evaluating the Econometric Evaluations of Training Programs with Experimental Data," American Economic Review, American Economic Association, vol. 76(4), pages 604-620, September.
    2. James J. Heckman & Hidehiko Ichimura & Petra E. Todd, 1997. "Matching As An Econometric Evaluation Estimator: Evidence from Evaluating a Job Training Programme," The Review of Economic Studies, Review of Economic Studies Ltd, vol. 64(4), pages 605-654.
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    Cited by:

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    2. Charles Meth, 2011. "Employer of Last Resort? South Africa’s Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP)," SALDRU Working Papers 58, Southern Africa Labour and Development Research Unit, University of Cape Town.
    3. Quinn Moore & Sheena McConnell & Alan Werner & Tim Kautz & Kristen Joyce & Kelley Borradaile & Bethany Boland, "undated". "Evaluation of Employment Coaching for TANF and Related Populations: Evaluation Design Report," Mathematica Policy Research Reports 3f5e6ca2b92549d1823c3bbe8, Mathematica Policy Research.

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