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Peer effects in computer assisted learning: evidence from a randomized experiment

Author

Listed:
  • Marcel Fafchamps

    (Stanford University and NBER)

  • Di Mo

    (Stanford University and REAP
    University of Leuven, LICOS)

Abstract

We conduct a large scale experiment to investigate peer effects in computer assisted learning (CAL). Identification relies on three levels of randomization. We find an average 0.17 standard deviation improvement in math scores among primary school students. This average effect is the same for students treated individually or in pairs, implying that peer effects double the learning benefit from a given equipment. Among paired students, poor performers benefit more from CAL when paired with good performers and vice versa. Average performers benefit equally irrespective of who they are paired with. This suggests that the treatment is dominated by knowledge exchange between peers. We also find that CAL treatment reduces the dispersion in math scores and that the beneficial effects of CAL can be strengthened if weak students are systematically paired with strong students.

Suggested Citation

  • Marcel Fafchamps & Di Mo, 2018. "Peer effects in computer assisted learning: evidence from a randomized experiment," Experimental Economics, Springer;Economic Science Association, vol. 21(2), pages 355-382, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:kap:expeco:v:21:y:2018:i:2:d:10.1007_s10683-017-9538-z
    DOI: 10.1007/s10683-017-9538-z
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    Cited by:

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    2. Fischer, Thomas & Rode, Johannes, 2020. "Classroom or pub - Where are persistent peer relationships between university students formed?," Journal of Economic Behavior & Organization, Elsevier, vol. 178(C), pages 474-493.
    3. Marcel Fafchamps & Simon Quinn, 2018. "Networks and Manufacturing Firms in Africa: Results from a Randomized Field Experiment," The World Bank Economic Review, World Bank, vol. 32(3), pages 656-675.
    4. Frijters, Paul & Islam, Asad & Pakrashi, Debayan, 2019. "Heterogeneity in peer effects in random dormitory assignment in a developing country," Journal of Economic Behavior & Organization, Elsevier, vol. 163(C), pages 117-134.
    5. Maiti, Surya Nath & Pakrashi, Debayan & Saha, Sarani & Smyth, Russell, 2022. "Don't judge a book by its cover: The role of intergroup contact in reducing prejudice in conflict settings," Journal of Economic Behavior & Organization, Elsevier, vol. 202(C), pages 533-548.
    6. Rute Martins Caeiro, 2019. "From Learning to Doing: Diffusion of Agricultural Innovations in Guinea-Bissau," NBER Working Papers 26065, National Bureau of Economic Research, Inc.

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Peer effects; Pairing; Math performance; Dispersion;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • I2 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Education
    • B4 - Schools of Economic Thought and Methodology - - Economic Methodology
    • J0 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - General

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