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Using Continuous and Finite Mixture Models to Account for Preference Heterogeneity in a group of Outdoor Recreationalists

Author

Listed:
  • Stephen Hynes

    (Rural Economy and Development Programme, Teagasc, Athenry, Co. Galway, Ireland)

  • Nick Hanley

    (University of Stirling, Scotland)

  • Cathal O’Donoghue

    (Rural Economy and Development Programme, Teagasc, Athenry, Co. Galway, Ireland)

Abstract

Multi-attribute revealed preference data are used to investigate the heterogeneity of tastes in a sample of kayakers in relation to a panel of eleven whitewater sites in Ireland. The paper focuses on a comparison of the analysis of preference heterogeneity using a random parameter logit model and a latent class model. We assess and contrast the evidence for the presence of a finite number of 2, 3, 4 and 5 latent preference groups (classes) and contrast these with the presence of a continuous distribution of parameter estimates using the random parameter logit model. Welfare estimates associated with changes in the attributes of particular whitewater sites are also presented and are found to vary considerably depending on the approach taken.

Suggested Citation

  • Stephen Hynes & Nick Hanley & Cathal O’Donoghue, 2006. "Using Continuous and Finite Mixture Models to Account for Preference Heterogeneity in a group of Outdoor Recreationalists," Working Papers 0602, Rural Economy and Development Programme,Teagasc.
    • Handle: RePEc:tea:wpaper:0602
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
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    6. Nick Hanley & W. Douglass Shaw & Robert E. Wright (ed.), 2003. "The New Economics of Outdoor Recreation," Books, Edward Elgar Publishing, number 2712.
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