Graduate Student Papers Page

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Papers in Progress

Predicting Default in Microfinance by Dean Karlan, Sendhil Mullainathan, Omar Robles

Abstract: We examine the value of experiments as quick and cost-effective credit screening tools for micro-credit sustainability in developing countries. First we show that there exists a strong pattern in behavior across experiments and real-world settings. Second we find that individuals with an inability to follow self-directed planning are the most likely to default. These results suggest that default is primarily unintentional and due to poor organization. Altogether this research suggests that promotion of organization skills and redirection of credit using screening tools may alleviate instability in microfinance.

Bilingual Education and the Effect on Achievement

The controversy over the use of Bilingual Education vs. English Immersion programs in the education of Limited English Proficient students has grown tremendously over the years. I examine the effect of bilingual education programs on achievement scores of non-native and native English speaking peers using a regression discontinuity approach. I utilize a state law that mandates a bilingual education program in a school where 20 or more students of Limited English Proficiency (LEP) speak the same foreign language.

Economics of Migration with Incomplete Information

While previous research has examined the importance of income distribution as criteria for self-selected migration little attention has been given to the assumption that the distribution is known prior to migration. This research purports that remittances serve a secondary purpose as signals of income distribution in host countries.

Published Papers

The Cognitive Link Between Geography and Development: Iodine Deficiency and Schooling Attainment in Tanzania by Erica Field, Omar Robles, Maximo Torero (March 2008)

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