Impact Evaluation of the Perry Preschool Programme

This case describes a policy maker who is reviewing evidence on the financial and social impact of giving low-income families access to high-quality preschools. In doing so, the case presents details of the oft-cited Perry Preschool study, which used a randomized experiment design for impact evaluation and cost-benefit analysis of one such programme.

This case sheds light on impact evaluation, focusing on how to use a rigorous randomized experiment approach (also called randomized control trials or RCTs). It also serves as a basis for discussing cost-benefit analysis and social returns on investment for interventions like high-quality preschools. It is suitable for courses on public policy, sustainable development, nonprofit management, social entrepreneurship, impact investing and research design.