For whom the reductions count: A quantile regression analysis of class size and peer effects on scholastic achievement

Jesse Levin ()
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Jesse Levin: NWO Program SCHOLAR and Tinbergen Institute, University of Amsterdam, Roetersstraat 11, 1018 WB Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Empirical Economics, 2001, vol. 26, issue 1, 246 pages

Abstract: In this paper the controversial educational topic of class size reduction is addressed. Controlling for a large number of observable characteristics and potential endogeneity in the class size variable, an educational production function is estimated using a quantile regression technique. The "conventional wisdom" that class size reduction is a viable means to increase scholastic achievement is discounted. Rather, the results point towards a far stronger peer effect through which class size reduction may play an important role. Due to heterogeneity in the newly identified peer effect, class size reduction is shown to be a potentially regressive policy measure.

Keywords: Quantile; regression; ·; class; size; ·; educational; production; ·; educational; equity. (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I21 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2001-03-19
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Citations: View citations in EconPapers (81)

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