Each theoretical estimand is linked to an empirical (observational) estimand, which is by predicting the relationship through the data. These assumptions can be conveyed in a Directed Acyclic Graph (DAC). Eventually, one finds the empirical estimand (e.g. Regression model). Exemplifying both the theoretical estimand and the empirical estimand allows for the link between theory and evidence, and different modes of arguments. The distinction is subtle but important: the former may involve unobservable quantities while the latter involves only observable data. 

Goal setting for empirical and theoretical estimands. 

The choice of theoretical and empirical estimands
- Theoretical estimands requires arguments about theory and goals 
- Empirical estimands require conceptual arguments about unobservable data. 
- STATING THE GOAL ALLOWS THE READER AND COMMUNITY TO ENGAGE AND BUILD ON THE WORK. 



The choice of Theoretical and Empirical Estimands 

The first is a unit-specific quantity: defined as a realized outcome, a potential outcome, or a difference in potential outcomes. Potential outcome can have an intervention of more than one variable. 



Rutgers University

- We should all ask one question when thinking about quantitative talks or articles: What is the estimand? 
- The estimate is an object of inquiry, and it talks about the precise quantity about which data we use to make an inference.
- Framework for quantitative social sciences when making a precise statement. 
 

Introduction Of Setting the Target 


Lundberg, I., Johnson, R., & Stewart, B. (2020, January 7). What is Your Estimand? Defining the Target Quantity Connects Statistical Evidence to Theory. https://doi.org/10.31235/osf.io/ba67n

What is your Estimand? Defining the target Quantity Connects Statistical Evidence to Theory  

- The framework is a way to show the current mode of quantitative inquiry: Hypotheses about regression coefficients. 
- Regression Coefficients: In statistics, the estimation of unknown population parameters between a predictor variable and a response. 
- This inquiry allows the research goal to happen inside the statistical model. If the research goal is a particular model, then you are committed to that model. Stating the research goal allows you to answer research questions that may come up when conducting the research.  

Framework for the Quantitative Social Sciences: Hypotheses about Regression Coefficients 

- The theoretical estimand has two aspects: One is the unit specific quantity, which tells the realized outcome and the other is the theoretical estimand of a target population
- A paper may have multiple Theoretical Estimands. 
 

Learn Before

Related

Learn After