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Cliometrics of Learning-Adjusted Years of Schooling: Evidence from a New Dataset

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Listed:
  • Nadir Altinok

    (BETA/CNRS & University of Lorraine)

  • Claude Diebolt

    (BETA/CNRS & University of Strasbourg)

Abstract

Analyzing education does not only involve years of schooling, quality matters! This paper aims at providing better data on schooling with a focus on learning outcomes. It provides the largest dataset on learning outcomes, years of schooling and learning-adjusted year of schooling (LAYS) with comparable data between 1970 and 2020. The quantity dimension is measured by years of schooling and uses the latest data from Barro and Lee (2013), while the quality dimension is taken from linking standardized, psychometrically-robust international achievement tests and hybrid tests. The data are available for more than 120 countries between 1970 and 2020. Several findings can be highlighted. A global convergence on both learning outcomes and enrollment has occurred since 1970, but a breakdown can be found after 1990. A very low number of countries perform better over time regarding the quality of schooling, while most countries have a stable level of learning outcomes.
(This abstract was borrowed from another version of this item.)

Suggested Citation

  • Nadir Altinok & Claude Diebolt, 2023. "Cliometrics of Learning-Adjusted Years of Schooling: Evidence from a New Dataset," Working Papers 02-23, Association Française de Cliométrie (AFC).
    • Handle: RePEc:afc:wpaper:02-23
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • C8 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Data Collection and Data Estimation Methodology; Computer Programs
    • I2 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Education
    • J24 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demand and Supply of Labor - - - Human Capital; Skills; Occupational Choice; Labor Productivity
    • N3 - Economic History - - Labor and Consumers, Demography, Education, Health, Welfare, Income, Wealth, Religion, and Philanthropy
    • O15 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Development - - - Economic Development: Human Resources; Human Development; Income Distribution; Migration

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