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Class Size and Educational Achievement in Tunisia: A Spatial Econometric Approach

Author

Listed:
  • Faten DARWEZ

    (Faculty of Economics and Management of Sousse, University of Sousse, Tunisia)

  • Khaled JEGUIRIM

    (Faculty of Economics and Management of Monastir, University of Monastir, Tunisia)

  • Christopher R. BRYANT

    (School of Environmental Design and Rural Development, University of Guelph, Canada)

Abstract

This paper addresses a new conceptual framework related to the study of the class size effect on student achievement. It proposes a methodologically different approach from the studies carried out so far. Based on regional observations on schools in Tunisia, the analy-sis is based on a spatial exploration of analyzed data (ESDA) and estimates the effect of class size through a spatial Durbin model. The results are in line with studies that defend the reduction of class size to yield better academic performance. However, the reduction in class size has significant effects only with 25 pupils, and little beyond.

Suggested Citation

  • Faten DARWEZ & Khaled JEGUIRIM & Christopher R. BRYANT, 2020. "Class Size and Educational Achievement in Tunisia: A Spatial Econometric Approach," Region et Developpement, Region et Developpement, LEAD, Universite du Sud - Toulon Var, vol. 52, pages 83-104.
  • Handle: RePEc:tou:journl:v:52:y:2020:p:83-104
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Education ; Class size ; Spatial autocorrelation ; Spatial Durbin model ; Tunisia;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • I21 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Education - - - Analysis of Education
    • C23 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Single Equation Models; Single Variables - - - Models with Panel Data; Spatio-temporal Models
    • C31 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Multiple or Simultaneous Equation Models; Multiple Variables - - - Cross-Sectional Models; Spatial Models; Treatment Effect Models; Quantile Regressions; Social Interaction Models

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