As an economics and cognitive science student, I’ve always been fascinated by the real-world intersection between psychology and economics. I am also tremendously passionate about applying my knowledge to effect change. I became interested in Prof. Sonia Laszlo's research after I was fortunate enough to take her Economic Development class, where she mentioned her work in experimental and behavioral economics. I was excited that Prof. Laszlo's research aligned with my interests and held tangible policy implications. Shortly after, I began working with Prof. Laszlo & Prof. Franque Grimard on a research project evaluating the efficacy of IgualdApp, a digital tool working to change gender norms in Paraguay. My ARIA project this summer aimed to broaden my knowledge of gender and economics and provide me the opportunity develop my quantitative analysis skills.
Much of my work was centered around my ongoing contributions to the Paraguay research study. Digital interventions are increasingly being considered as cost-efficient, scalable, wider-reaching alternatives to in-person mentoring. IgualdApp, developed by an NGO called Fundación Capital, educates and challenges users on traditional gender norms and stereotypes. Our study evaluates the outcomes of IgualdApp on female participants in Paraguay’s ABRAZO program, an initiative designed to help reduce rates of child labor.
I began my work by translating and editing a qualitative study discussing gender norms in Latin America and Paraguay. This process provided me with crucial cultural and regional context with which to anchor my quantitative analysis. I first compared our sample’s demographic and socioeconomic traits with those collected by two other household surveys to assess the similarity of our sample compared to the general population. After this, I used the data collected in the main study, including respondents’ level of agreement with statements on gender norms and other empowerment measures, to assess the relationship between individuals’ beliefs on gender equity and their demographic and socioeconomic characteristics as described in the qualitative literature.
In addition to my quantitative work, I drafted a preliminary policy brief discussing the implications of IgualdApp and digital learning tools. I also assisted Prof. Laszlo with the development of a new course at McGill on gender & economics. This included researching available information and data visualizations concerning topics such as marriage markets and gender roles in the household, the gender pay gap, traditional gender roles, and women’s economic empowerment.
The quantitative aspects of this project proved to be challenging for me. Although I had some previous experience using STATA, the statistical software used to analyze data for this project, I soon discovered the discrepancy between working with sample datasets and real-world data. For example, the datasets I was working with often didn’t have descriptive variable and value labels, which made it difficult to parse through the data and understand which variables I needed to use in my analysis. I quickly learned the paramount importance of reading data documentation before beginning my analysis! However, through patience and many meetings with Prof. Grimard, I was able to solidify my data analysis skills and put into practice some of the theory I had learned in my econometrics classes.
On the other hand, the most rewarding part of the process wasn’t immediately visible—it was the affirmation that the work I was doing had the potential to have a real impact on influencing gender norms. One of the appeals of digital learning tools is that they offer the opportunity for real-time feedback and rapid adjustment. I hope that my work, shaped by both qualitative and quantitative evidence, can shed light both on the current of gender equity in Paraguay and provide insight into how IgualdApp can be used to have the greatest positive impact on its target population.
My ARIA experience has shown me the importance of careful, thoughtful research and the ways in which research has the potential to shape policy decisions by exploring new methods and ways to improve lives across the globe. I have also gained valuable skills that will allow continue on my journey of using data to deliver impactful solutions.
I wish to extend my gratitude to the individuals who made my work this summer possible. I am endlessly grateful to Prof. Laszlo and Prof. Grimard for guiding me through the research process with kindness, patience, and eagerness to help me learn. Thank you also to Mr. Mark W. Gallop and the Max Bell School of Public Policy for their generous contributions and support of undergraduate research.
