Revisiting the Role of Private Schooling on Children Learning Outcomes: Evidence from Rural India

This study compares learning outcomes for rural Indian children aged 8 to 11 years attending private versus public schools. The researchers used statistical methods to account for differences in which families choose private schools. They found that children in private schools performed significantly better than those in public schools, including in low-fee private schools. However, the benefits varied across regions and population groups, and concerns remain about whether private schooling is affordable and accessible to all.

Key points

• Children attending private schools showed significantly better learning outcomes than those in public schools
• The private schooling advantage was evident even in low-fee private schools
• The magnitude of the private schooling premium varied across regions and different groups of children
• Concerns exist regarding affordability, access, and educational segregation related to private schooling expansion
• The study provides all-India estimates rather than focusing on single states

Limitations

The document does not specify what learning outcomes were measured, the sample size, or the specific statistical methods used to address selection bias. It also does not describe what regional or group differences were found, or provide details on the magnitude of performance differences.