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The Returns to Non-Cognitive Skills: A Meta-Analysis

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Abstract

This paper discusses the returns to non-cognitive skills based on results of a meta-analysis. The systematic literature review of articles published in the last decade and analysing labour market outcomes and non-cognitive skills allowed us to extract more than 300 estimates linking earnings and non-cognitive skills, most often measured by the Big Five inventory. The results of meta-analysis point to heterogeneity in the estimated signs and significance of a particular non-cognitive skill. We observe that conscientiousness and openness are two personality traits that bring higher earnings, while agreeableness and neuroticism (low emotional stability) are associated with receiving lower earnings. Some gender differences are also observed. Older and female participants seemed to benefit more from programmes targeted at developing non-cognitive skills than younger participants and men. However, there is a positive selection of female participants to enrol to programmes with better prospects (e.g. longer in duration).

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  • Sofie Cabus & Joanna Napierala & Stephanie Carretero, 2021. "The Returns to Non-Cognitive Skills: A Meta-Analysis," JRC Working Papers on Labour, Education and Technology 2021-06, Joint Research Centre.
    • Handle: RePEc:ipt:laedte:202106
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    File URL: https://publications.jrc.ec.europa.eu/repository/handle/JRC123308
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    1. Maria Cinque & Stephanie Carretero & Joanna Napierala, 2021. "Non-cognitive skills and other related concepts: towards a better understanding of similarities and differences," JRC Working Papers on Labour, Education and Technology 2021-09, Joint Research Centre.

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    Keywords

    Big Five; Meta-analysis; Non-cognitive skills; earnings; Programme effectiveness; Returns;
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