March 2010, Vol. 41, Issue 2
Using Propensity Scores to Reduce Selection Bias in Mathematics Education Research
Suzanne E. Graham
This article describes general principles
underlying propensity score methods and illustrates their application to
mathematics education research using 2 examples investigating the impact of
problem-solving emphasis in mathematics classrooms on students’ subsequent
mathematics achievement and course taking. Selection bias is a problem for mathematics
education researchers interested in using observational rather than
experimental data to make causal inferences about the effects of different
instructional methods in mathematics on student outcomes. Propensity score
methods represent 1 approach to dealing with such selection bias. Limitations
of the method are discussed.
This article is available to members of NCTM who subscribe to
Journal for Research in Mathematics Education. Don't miss out—join now or upgrade your membership. You may also purchase this article now for online access.
Log In/Create Account
Purchase Article