Causal Inference With Quasi-Experimental Designs: Methods and Applications

Session Submission Type: Professional Development Course

Abstract

This mini-course will introduce participants to quasi-experimental designs that can afford causal inferences when using non-experimental data. Methods discussed will include instrumental variables estimation, matching techniques, and regression discontinuity designs. For each method, we will discuss the assumptions required for causal inference, as well as how to assess the plausibility of the assumptions. Examples for each method will be given. In addition, there will be opportunities for participants to gain hands-on experience with implementing the methods through computer-based exercises. [Note: please bring a laptop, loaded with stata, and have familiarity with using stata; otherwise, you can follow along during the course, and then try the computer-based exercises at home.]

Sub Unit

• Professional Development and Training Committee

Director

• Joseph P. Robinson, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Instructor

• Allison C. Atteberry, University of Virginia