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Lost in the Design Space? Construct Validity in the Microfinance Literature

Author

Listed:
  • Masselus, Lise
  • Petrik, Christina
  • Ankel-Peters, Jörg
Abstract
Our paper examines construct validity, an often neglected yet important element affecting the generalizability of individual study results. Construct validity deals with how the operationalization of a treatment corresponds to the broader construct it intends to speak to. The universe of potential operationalizations is referred to as the design space. As an empirical example, we systematically review 45 microfinance Randomized Controlled Trials to estimate the size of the design space. Variations in the treatment operationalization matter for the observed effect. We also show that most papers generalize from the operationalized treatment to a broad construct, mostly without acknowledging underlying assumptions.

Suggested Citation

  • Masselus, Lise & Petrik, Christina & Ankel-Peters, Jörg, 2024. "Lost in the Design Space? Construct Validity in the Microfinance Literature," I4R Discussion Paper Series 184, The Institute for Replication (I4R).
    • Handle: RePEc:zbw:i4rdps:184
    as

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    File URL: https://www.econstor.eu/bitstream/10419/306281/1/I4R-DP184.pdf
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    causal inference; generalizability; meta-science; microfinance; systematic review;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • A11 - General Economics and Teaching - - General Economics - - - Role of Economics; Role of Economists
    • C18 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Econometric and Statistical Methods and Methodology: General - - - Methodolical Issues: General
    • C93 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Design of Experiments - - - Field Experiments
    • D04 - Microeconomics - - General - - - Microeconomic Policy: Formulation; Implementation; Evaluation
    • O12 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Development - - - Microeconomic Analyses of Economic Development
    • O16 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Development - - - Financial Markets; Saving and Capital Investment; Corporate Finance and Governance

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