Abstract
Recent advances in the use of randomised control trials to evaluate the effect of development interventions promise to enhance our knowledge of what works and why. A core argument supporting randomised studies is the claim that they have high internal validity. The authors argue that this claim is weak as long as a trial registry of development interventions is not in place. Without a trial registry, the possibilities for data mining, created by analyses of multiple outcomes and subgroups, undermine internal validity. Drawing on experience from evidence-based medicine and recent examples from microfinance, they argue that a trial registry would also enhance external validity and foster innovative research.
Original language | English |
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Journal | Journal of Development Effectiveness |
Volume | 3 |
Issue number | 4 |
Pages (from-to) | 502-519 |
Number of pages | 18 |
ISSN | 1943-9342 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 2011 |
Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
- Impact assessment
- Randomised control trials
- Trial registry