How to solve U.S. social problems when most rigorous program evaluations find disappointing effects (part two – a proposed solution)
Highlights: As discussed in our previous Straight Talk report, the pattern of disappointing effects in most rigorous program evaluations is compelling and needs to be taken seriously if we hope to make progress in solving social problems. We suggest that policymakers,...How to solve U.S. social problems when most rigorous program evaluations find disappointing effects (part one in a series)
Highlights: The ultimate goal of evidence-based policy is to improve people’s lives. This report discusses what we see as the key challenge in achieving that goal: When rigorously evaluated, most social programs and practices are found not to produce the hoped-for...Unreliable findings, published in Pediatrics, regarding the effects of a home visiting program on child obesity
Highlights: We review an article published in this month’s issue of Pediatrics, a leading scientific journal, that reported findings from a randomized controlled trial of an early childhood home visiting program called Minding the Baby. The key reported finding is...Programs that increase college attendance and completion by low-income students: Recent RCT findings
Highlights: In recent years, there has been a dramatic increase in the number of high-quality randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of programs aimed at helping low-income young adults attend and complete college. A key driver of this growth in postsecondary RCTs has...Showing 5 of 20 Reviews