Ongoing Research

Road to the Future: Identifying Impacts of Roads on Education in Colombia

Polanco-Jimenez, J. (2024)

Abstract This study examines the impact of Colombia's road concession program on educational outcomes in public schools. Using a staggered difference-in-differences approach, I find that road improvements lead to a significant increase of 0.169 standard deviations in math scores, with the full effect materializing after project completion. Reading scores also show a positive, though less pronounced, trend. These findings are robust to various checks, including alternative estimators and control groups. Additionally, I observe reduced child labor participation and increased higher education pursuit following road improvements. This evidence suggests that Public-Private Partnerships-driven road concession programs can be effective tools for promoting human capital development in developing countries and that policymakers should consider the long-term educational benefits when evaluating infrastructure investments.
Figure 1: Impact of Road Concessions on Education Outcomes

Black Gold and Dull Minds: The Impact of Oil Exploration Announcements on Education in Colombia

Polanco-Jimenez, J., & Posso, C. (2024) Black Gold and Dull Minds Abstract: Investigates how oil exploration announcements influence dropout rates and educational aspirations among students in Colombia.

Gender Composition in Classrooms: Influences on Post-Secondary Schooling Choices

Polanco-Jimenez, J., De Witte, K., & Bernal, G. L. (2024) Gender Composition Abstract: Analyzes how gender diversity in classrooms impacts students’ decisions regarding higher education and career pathways.

Can AI Mitigate Teacher Shortages? Causal Evidence on Financial Literacy from a Randomized Controlled Trial

Polanco-Jimenez, J. & De Witte, K. AI and Teacher Shortages Abstract: Evaluates the effectiveness of AI-driven education tools in addressing teacher shortages and improving financial literacy among students.

Empowering Growth: A Longitudinal Analysis of Financial Literacy’s Impact on Colombian Small Businesses

Lozano, J. & Polanco-Jimenez, J. Financial Literacy and Small Businesses Abstract: Explores the long-term impact of financial literacy programs on small business growth and economic resilience in Colombia.

Moving into Greener Jobs: Impact of Oil Shocks on Students’ Career Choices

Castaneda, K. & Polanco-Jimenez, J. Greener Jobs Abstract: Examines how oil price fluctuations shape students’ career aspirations and their transition towards environmentally sustainable professions.

About

This site showcases my ongoing research projects in economics, education, and artificial intelligence. Feel free to explore my work and get in touch!