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ECON 395: International Economics

For Professor Prathi Seneviratne - comps 2014-15

Data Reference Worksheet

When searching for data it can feel like there is no method and you are just casting about.  When we meet to discuss finding data, it can help to know that we are discussing a framework laid out in this worksheet.

Noting Data Sources

At the very first stages of your literature review, start taking notes on potential data sources.  Make a habit of jotting down the data used in each study you read to make it faster when you come back later in your search for data.  Also, this practice can help you see and articulate how your contribution is unique.  You might want to keep these notes in a table like the following for easy reference.

Author(s) and Year of Publication Claim Data Dependent Variable/Estimation Technique Significant Findings

 

See an example of this practice in action:

Comparing Variables Across Datasets

In your search for data you may need to compare similar questions from several surveys. Below is a grid to help you keep track of this process.

Sites with Research Articles and Data

Search these portals to search across many sites at once. Items are usually selected for inclusion based on their relevance and quality.