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RCTs as an opportunity to promote interdisciplinary, inclusive, and diverse quantitative development research

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  • Naritomi, Joana
  • Sequeira, Sandra
  • Weigel, Jonathan
  • Weinhold, Diana
Abstract
The limitations of Randomized Controlled Trials as a research method have been well documented. Here we highlight one overlooked benefit of experimental research: a well-designed RCT requires in-depth knowledge of local customs and context, which brings researchers to the field and creates opportunities for collaboration across disciplines, between academics and policymakers, and among Northern and Southern researchers. Such collaborations have the potential to greatly enrich development scholarship. We illustrate our point with data from recent published papers in development economics, and conclude that RCTs, as one tool among many, can help promote more interdisciplinary, inclusive, and diverse quantitative development research.

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  • Naritomi, Joana & Sequeira, Sandra & Weigel, Jonathan & Weinhold, Diana, 2020. "RCTs as an opportunity to promote interdisciplinary, inclusive, and diverse quantitative development research," World Development, Elsevier, vol. 127(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:wdevel:v:127:y:2020:i:c:s0305750x19304814
    DOI: 10.1016/j.worlddev.2019.104832
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    9. Naila Kabeer, 2019. "Randomized Control Trials and Qualitative Evaluations of a Multifaceted Programme for Women in Extreme Poverty: Empirical Findings and Methodological Reflections," Journal of Human Development and Capabilities, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 20(2), pages 197-217, April.
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    Cited by:

    1. Ingrid Harvold Kvangraven & Surbhi Kesar, 2021. "Standing in the Way of Rigor? Economics’ Meeting with the Decolonizing Agenda," Working Papers 2110, New School for Social Research, Department of Economics.

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