Look Who it Was Random video

Designing and Running Randomized Evaluations | MITx on edX

4,013 views · Published 8 February 2018 · 3:05 · Indexed 20 September 2026

Channel: edX · 2018 · People & Blogs

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Take this course for free on edx.org. 

https://www.edx.org/course/designing-running-randomized-evaluations-mitx-jpal102x-2

Learn how to both design randomized evaluations and implement them in the field to measure the impact of social programs.


This course is part of the MITx MicroMasters program in Data, Economics, and Development Policy. To enroll in the full program, go to MIT’s MicroMasters site. If you want to enroll in this course only, click “Enroll Now.” Learn more about this program and how it integrates with MIT’s new blended master’s degree.

A randomized evaluation, also known as a randomized controlled trial (RCT), field experiment or field trial, is a type of impact evaluation that uses random assignment to allocate resources, run programs, or apply policies as part of the study design.

This course will provide step-by-step training on how to design and conduct an RCT. You will learn about why and when to conduct RCTs and the key components of a well-designed RCT.

In addition, this course will provide insights on how to implement your RCT in the field, including questionnaire design, piloting, quality control, data collection and management. The course will also go over common practices to ensure research transparency.

No previous economics or statistics background is needed.

What You Will Learn
Designing a Randomized Evaluation
Selecting a sample
Measurement of outcomes
Collecting and managing your data
Research Integrity, Transparency, and Reproducibility

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