Causal effects of mathematics

Torberg Falch, Ole Henning Nyhus and Bjarne Strøm

Working Paper Series from Department of Economics, Norwegian University of Science and Technology

Abstract: This paper exploits that students at age 16 in Norway are randomly selected into one compulsory exit exam in either mathematics or languages. A few days before the actual exam day, the students are notified about exam subject. The students have an intensive preparation period, and preparation in mathematics relative to languages is found to decrease dropout from high school, increase enrollment in higher education, and increase enrollment in natural science and technology education programs. The causal effects are strongest for males, and depend on prior skills in mathematics. We explore several mechanisms that might contribute to these findings.

Keywords: Mathematical training; Intervention; External exit examination; High school graduation; Higher education (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I21 J24 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Pages: 44 pages
Date: 2013-07-30
New Economics Papers: this item is included in nep-edu
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http://www.svt.ntnu.no/iso/WP/2013/12_casualmath_TF_OHN_BS.pdf (application/pdf)

Related works:
Journal Article: Causal effects of mathematics (2014)
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:nst:samfok:15013

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