Events at CERGE-EI

Sonya Krutikova, Ph.D.

Institute for Fiscal Studies, London, United Kingdom

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Authors: Alison Andrew, Orazio Attanasio, Raquel Bernal, Lina Cardona Sosa, Sonya Krutikova, and Marta Rubio-Codina

Abstract: Global access to preschool has increased dramatically yet preschool quality is often poor. We use a randomized controlled trial to evaluate two approaches to improving the quality of Colombian preschools. We find that the first, which was rolled out nationwide and provides additional resources for materials and new staff, did not benefit children’s development and, unintentionally, led teachers to reduce their involvement in classroom activities. The second approach additionally trains teachers to improve their pedagogical methods. We find this addition offset the negative effects on teacher behavior, improved the quality of teaching and raised children’s cognition, language and school readiness.

JEL Codes: J13, I10, I20, H43.

Keywords: early childhood development, preschool quality, childcare quality.
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Full Text: “Preschool Quality and Child Development”