This paper provides an introduction and “user guide” to Regression Discontinuity (RD) designs for empirical researchers. It presents the basic theory behind the research design, details when RD is likely to be valid or invalid given economic incentives, explains why it is considered a “quasi-experimental” design, and summarizes different ways (with their advantages and disadvantages) of estimating RD designs and the limitations of interpreting these estimates. Concepts are discussed using examples drawn from the growing body of empirical research using RD.

Using Student Performance Data to Identify Effective Classroom Practices by John H. Tyler, Eric S. Taylor, Thomas J. Kane and Amy L. Wooten. Published in volume 100, issue 2, pages 256-60 of American Economic Review, May 2010