Abstract
- This methodological brief introduces the reader to the regression discontinuity design (RDD), which is a method that when used correctly can yield estimates of research treatment effects that are equivalent to those of randomized control trials and can therefore be used to infer causality. However, RDD does not require the random assignment of individuals to treatment and control groups, making it very attractive for applied researchers in educational settings. This brief introduces the method, discussed applications and limitations, and illustrates both an ideal example as well as data highlighting a potential pitfall that is particularly relevant to gifted education research.