The determinants of the academic outcome: a Bayesian approach using a sample of economics students from the University of Brasilia, Brazil

Ferreira Lima, Luis Cristovao (2012): The determinants of the academic outcome: a Bayesian approach using a sample of economics students from the University of Brasilia, Brazil.

Abstract

Using a survey conduct with 240 Economics students of the University of Brasília in August, 2011, this paper explores the determinants of the academic outcome, measured as the Gross Point Average of the University. The econometric method used to estimate is Ordinary Least Squares with Bayesian Inference. The explanatory variables include the habits of the students, such as study, frequency to classes and frequency to parties (the last one is a new approach in Brazil). Also, dummies of gender, work, type of high school and quota student were added. Study and frequency to classes turned out to be the most important determinants. The frequency to parties have not affected the Gross Point Average. The dummies had different results according to the group. There were no divergence with the major prior beliefs, with just one small exception.

• Item Type: MPRA Paper
• Language: English
• Keywords: Higher Education, Academic Outcome, Bayesian Econometrics, Affirmative Policies
• Subjects: C - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods > C1 - Econometric and Statistical Methods and Methodology: General > C11 - Bayesian Analysis: General; C - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods > C2 - Single Equation Models ; Single Variables > C21 - Cross-Sectional Models ; Spatial Models ; Treatment Effect Models ; Quantile Regressions; C - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods > C5 - Econometric Modeling > C52 - Model Evaluation, Validation, and Selection; I - Health, Education, and Welfare > I2 - Education and Research Institutions > I21 - Analysis of Education; I - Health, Education, and Welfare > I2 - Education and Research Institutions > I23 - Higher Education ; Research Institutions

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