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Class Size and the Regression Discontinuity Design: The Case of Public Schools

Author

Listed:
  • Cohen-Zada, Danny

    (Ben Gurion University)

  • Gradstein, Mark

    (Ben Gurion University)

  • Reuven, Ehud

    (Ben Gurion University)

Abstract

Using a rich individual-level dataset on secondary public schools in Israel, we find strong evidence for discontinuities in the relationship between enrollment and household characteristics at cutoff points induced by a maximum class size rule. Our findings extend existing work that documents such discontinuities only among private schools (Urquiola and Verhoogen, 2009). These discontinuities violate the assumptions underlying the regression discontinuity design, which are crucial for identification. Consequently, IV estimates of class size effects are likely to be seriously biased. Potential manipulation of the treatment assignment rule by public schools warrants caution in applying a regression discontinuity design to estimate class size effects and indicates that institutional context is crucial for its scope of applicability.

Suggested Citation

  • Cohen-Zada, Danny & Gradstein, Mark & Reuven, Ehud, 2009. "Class Size and the Regression Discontinuity Design: The Case of Public Schools," IZA Discussion Papers 4679, Institute of Labor Economics (IZA).
    • Handle: RePEc:iza:izadps:dp4679
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Cohen-Zada, Danny & Gradstein, Mark & Reuven, Ehud, 2013. "Allocation of students in public schools: Theory and new evidence," Economics of Education Review, Elsevier, vol. 34(C), pages 96-106.
    2. Sameh Hallaq, 2020. "Class Size, Cognitive Abilities, Bullying, and Violent Behavior: Evidence from West Bank Schools," Economics Working Paper Archive wp_955, Levy Economics Institute.
    3. Sameh Hallaq, 2024. "Class size reduction, bullying, and violent behavior: Evidence from West Bank schools," Bulletin of Economic Research, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 76(2), pages 545-595, April.

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    regression discontinuity design; class size;

    JEL classification:

    • I20 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Education - - - General

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