10102401

Quantitative Methoden: Empirical Economics: Women and Men in the Labor Market (V)

Natalia Danzer

Kommentar

Content & Aim of the Course
The aim of this course is to introduce students to modern microeconometric methods for policy
evaluation aimed at estimating causal effects (treatment effects) in the area of labor economics. In the
lecture part, we will cover empirical methods as well as basic labor economic theories. We will cover
microeconometric methods of policy evaluation such as Instrumental Variables, Regression
Discontinuity, Difference-in-Differences and Panel Data/Fixed Effects. We will discuss these methods
in the context of current research questions related to differences in labour market behavior and
outcomes between men and women in industrialized economies and developing countries. In the
seminar part, students will be given the opportunity to apply their knowledge while their own research
projects. This includes critical reading and discussion of research papers applying these modern
empirical methods to micro data. Moreover, students will learn how to apply the methods in hands-
on empirical exercises with real-world micro data, using the statistical software package STATA (FU
students can download the free campus license via ZEDAT to their personal computers or use the
computer lab). At the end of the course, students should have acquainted the skills to (i) critically read,
present, and discuss empirical journal articles in the field of labor economics, (ii) learn how to work
with micro data, conduct first own analyses and (iii) write own research papers based on own empirical
analyses.
Examples of research questions and topics
? How large is the gender pay gap and what are potential explanations of the gender pay gap?
? Why are there differences in earnings and occupations between women and men?
? How do economic or family policies affect male and female labour supply and gender
inequality?
? How do economists measure and test for discrimination in the labor market? Are quotas an
effective policy tool?
? How do empirical economists assess the role of gender norms for labor market outcomes?
Methods Covered
? OLS and Causality, Omitted Variable Bias, Counterfactual, Potential Outcomes Framework
? Randomized Control Trials
? Instrumental Variables Approach
? Regression Discontinuity Design
? Panel Data Methods
? Difference-in-Difference Approach

Prüfungsleistung/Exam
? Term paper (about 12 pages)
? Presentation of term paper in seminar (approximately 30 minutes)
? Additional assignments (group assignments)

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