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Feeling the Florida Heat? How Low-Performing Schools Respond to Voucher and Accountability Pressure

Author

Listed:
  • Cecilia Elena Rouse
  • Jane Hannaway
  • Dan Goldhaber
  • David Figlio

Abstract

While numerous studies have found that school accountability boosts test scores, it is uncertain whether estimated test score gains reflect genuine improvements or merely ?gaming? behaviors. This paper brings to bear new evidence from a unique five-year, three-round survey conducted of a census of public elementary schools in Florida that is linked with detailed administrative data on student performance. We show that schools facing accountability pressure changed their instructional practices in meaningful ways, and that these responses can explain a portion of the test score gains associated with the Florida school accountability system. (JEL H75, I21, I28)

Suggested Citation

  • Cecilia Elena Rouse & Jane Hannaway & Dan Goldhaber & David Figlio, 2013. "Feeling the Florida Heat? How Low-Performing Schools Respond to Voucher and Accountability Pressure," American Economic Journal: Economic Policy, American Economic Association, vol. 5(2), pages 251-281, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:aea:aejpol:v:5:y:2013:i:2:p:251-81
    Note: DOI: 10.1257/pol.5.2.251
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • H75 - Public Economics - - State and Local Government; Intergovernmental Relations - - - State and Local Government: Health, Education, and Welfare
    • I21 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Education - - - Analysis of Education
    • I28 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Education - - - Government Policy

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    1. Feeling the Florida Heat? How Low-Performing Schools Respond to Voucher and Accountability Pressure (American Economic Journal: Economic Policy 2013) in ReplicationWiki

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