Sangam: A Confluence of Knowledge Streams

Learning Through Noticing: Theory and Experimental Evidence in Farming

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dc.creator Hanna, Rema
dc.creator Mullainathan, Sendhil
dc.creator Schwartstein, Josh
dc.date 2020-11-18T16:45:36Z
dc.date 2012-09
dc.date 2020-11-18T16:45:36Z
dc.date.accessioned 2022-05-18T11:03:49Z
dc.date.available 2022-05-18T11:03:49Z
dc.identifier Hanna, Rema, Sendhil Mullainathan, and Joshua Schwartzstein. “Learning Through Noticing: Theory and Experimental Evidence in Farming.” CID Working Paper Series 2012.245, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, September 2012.
dc.identifier https://nrs.harvard.edu/URN-3:HUL.INSTREPOS:37366270
dc.identifier.uri http://localhost:8080/xmlui/handle/CUHPOERS/26586
dc.description Existing learning models attribute failures to learn to a lack of data. We model a different barrier. Given the large number of dimensions one could focus on when using a technology, people may fail to learn because they failed to notice important features of the data they possess. We conduct a field experiment with seaweed farmers to test a model of "learning through noticing." We find evidence of a failure to notice: On some dimensions, farmers do not even know the value of their own input. Interestingly, trials show that these dimensions are the ones that farmers fail to optimize. Furthermore, consistent with the model, we find that simply having access to the experimental data does not induce learning. Instead, farmers change behavior only when presented with summaries that highlight the overlooked dimensions. We also draw out the implications of learning through noticing for technology adoption, agricultural extension, and the meaning of human capital.
dc.description Accepted Manuscript
dc.format application/pdf
dc.language en_US
dc.publisher Center for International Development at Harvard University
dc.relation https://www.hks.harvard.edu/centers/cid/publications
dc.relation CID Working Paper Series
dc.title Learning Through Noticing: Theory and Experimental Evidence in Farming
dc.type Research Paper or Report


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