Can Information on School Attributes and Placement Probabilities Direct Search and Choice? Evidence from Choice Platforms in Ecuador and Peru
Abstract
This paper evaluates how new information influences families' applications and assignment outcomes in elementary school choice settings. Using a multi-country randomized controlled trial based in Tacna, Peru, and Manta, Ecuador, the authors study the effects of providing personalized feedback on school placement risk and school suggestions. The results show that in Peru, applicants who received this information added more schools and were more likely to include recommended options, improving their application portfolios. In Ecuador, the intervention had marginal effects, possibly due to lower school density and lack of outreach via WhatsApp. The findings highlight the importance of context and communication channels in shaping school choice behavior.
- Coauthors: Felipe Arteaga, Gregory Elacqua, Thomas Krussig, Carolina Méndez, Christopher A. Neilson
- Published: IDB Working Paper Series
- Date: 2022
