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A practical test for the choice of mixing distribution in a discrete choice model

Author

Listed:
  • Mogens Fosgerau

    (Danish Transport Research Institute)

  • Michel Bierlaire

    (Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne)

Abstract

The choice of a specific distribution for random parameters of a discrete choice model is a critical issue in transportation analysis. Indeed, various pieces of research have demonstrated that an inappropriate choice of the distribution may lead to serious biases in model forecast and in the estimated means of random parameters. In this paper we propose a practical test, based on seminonparametric techniques. The test is analyzed both on synthetic and real data, and is shown to be simple and powerful.

Suggested Citation

  • Mogens Fosgerau & Michel Bierlaire, 2005. "A practical test for the choice of mixing distribution in a discrete choice model," Econometrics 0512002, University Library of Munich, Germany.
    • Handle: RePEc:wpa:wuwpem:0512002
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Seminonparametric; discrete choice; mixed logit; value of time;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • C1 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Econometric and Statistical Methods and Methodology: General
    • C2 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Single Equation Models; Single Variables
    • C3 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Multiple or Simultaneous Equation Models; Multiple Variables
    • C4 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Econometric and Statistical Methods: Special Topics
    • C5 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Econometric Modeling
    • C8 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Data Collection and Data Estimation Methodology; Computer Programs

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