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Economic Field Experiments: Comments on Design Efficiency, Sample Size and Statistical Power

Author

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  • Johannes Ledolter

    (Department of Management Science and Department of Statistics and Actuarial Science, University of Iowa, U.S.A.)

Abstract

This paper puts forward suggestions that could improve the efficiency of field experiments as they are currently carried out in experimental economics. Two recommendations are made: (1) Prior to the actual study, economic field experiments should include sample size calculations that confirm that meaningful effects can be detected. (2) Economic field experiments should take advantage of the power of multi-factor experimental plans.

Suggested Citation

  • Johannes Ledolter, 2013. "Economic Field Experiments: Comments on Design Efficiency, Sample Size and Statistical Power," Journal of Economics and Management, College of Business, Feng Chia University, Taiwan, vol. 9(2), pages 271-290, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:jec:journl:v:9:y:2013:i:2:p:271-290
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    File URL: http://www.jem.org.tw/content/pdf/Vol.9No.2/08.pdf
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. John List & Sally Sadoff & Mathis Wagner, 2011. "So you want to run an experiment, now what? Some simple rules of thumb for optimal experimental design," Experimental Economics, Springer;Economic Science Association, vol. 14(4), pages 439-457, November.
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    Cited by:

    1. Kathryn N. Vasilaky & J. Michelle Brock, 2020. "Power(ful) guidelines for experimental economists," Journal of the Economic Science Association, Springer;Economic Science Association, vol. 6(2), pages 189-212, December.

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    economic field experiments; experimental design; multi-factor experiments; sample size; statistical power;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • C9 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Design of Experiments
    • C90 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Design of Experiments - - - General
    • C93 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Design of Experiments - - - Field Experiments

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