Characterizing the File Drawer: Evidence from a Meta-Analysis of Parent-Interventions Around the World

Peter Bergman () and Nat Chowanajin ()
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Peter Bergman: University of Texas at Austin
Nat Chowanajin: University of Texas at Austin

No 18701, IZA Discussion Papers from IZA Network @ LISER

Abstract: We conduct a meta-analysis of 82 randomized controlled trials across more than 20 countries to estimate the effects of low-cost, remote parental engagement interventions delivered through text messages, phone calls, and apps. We estimate a joint likelihood function that incorporates both written studies and unwritten studies identified through trial registries, funder records, research labs, evidence clearinghouses, and other sources. By also recording sample sizes for unwritten studies, the model estimates the distribution of standard errors, identifies write-up probabilities conditional on significance, and characterizes the file drawer by estimating effect distributions for written \textit{and} unwritten studies. Bias-corrected effects are 0.05 SD for test scores, 0.07 SD for grades, 0.05 SD for attendance, and 0.03 SD for enrollment. In the best-identified domain, test scores, statistically insignificant results are still written up at high rates. We estimate the value of additional RCTs to inform adoption decisions. Any single study estimate is unlikely to dissuade adoption because parent interventions have high marginal value of public funds. Future research is most valuable if it can explain heterogeneity across settings.

Keywords: meta-analysis; parent engagement; randomized trials (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I24 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026-05
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