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Estimating Causal Effects of Treatments in Experimental and Observational Studies

Author(s):
Rubin, Donald B.
Publication Year:
1972
Report Number:
RB-72-39
Source:
ETS Research Bulletin
Document Type:
Report
Page Count:
33
Subject/Key Words:
Control Groups, Experimental Groups, Research Methodology, Statistical Analysis

Abstract

Matching, randomization, random sampling, and other methods of controlling extraneous variation are discussed. The purpose was to specify the benefits of randomization in estimating causal effects of treatments. It is concluded that randomization should be employed whenever possible, but the use of carefully controlled nonrandomized data to estimate causal effects is a reasonable and necessary procedure in many cases. (Author) (33pp.)

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