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Schools, Skills, and Synapses

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  • James J. Heckman

    (University of Chicago)

Abstract

This paper discusses (a) the role of cognitive and noncognitive ability in shaping adult outcomes, (b) the early emergence of differentials in abilities between children of advantaged families and children of disadvantaged families, (c) the role of families in creating these abilities, (d) adverse trends in American families, and (e) the effective- ness of early interventions in offsetting these trends. Practical issues in the design and implementation of early childhood programs are discussed.

Suggested Citation

  • James J. Heckman, 2008. "Schools, Skills, and Synapses," Working Papers 200833, Geary Institute, University College Dublin.
  • Handle: RePEc:ucd:wpaper:200833
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    productivity; high school dropout; ability gaps; family influence; noncognitive skills; early interventions;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • A12 - General Economics and Teaching - - General Economics - - - Relation of Economics to Other Disciplines

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