For anyone looking for upstream solutions to the biggest problems facing America, the Heckman Equation initiative understands the great gains to be had by investing in the early and equal development of human potential.

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Featured Resources

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Perry Preschool research shows high-quality investments result in stronger families and multi-generation outcomes, emerging as an effective way to break the cycle of poverty.

Multi-Generational Impact

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Research shows high-quality, birth-to-five early childhood education provides a higher rate of return than preschool alone.

13% ROI for 0-to-5 Programs

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Short-term measurements of cognitive skills don’t tell the real story of long-term life and career success. Skills developed through quality early childhood education last for a lifetime.

Fadeout is a Myth

James J. Heckman received the Nobel Memorial Prize for his work on the Heckman Correction and its broader impact in 2000. As an expert in the field, Heckman’s Equation initiative and his continued research has been shared on a global level.

What is the Heckman Curve?

Investing early in children yields the greatest returns. The Heckman Curve demonstrates that the highest economic and social benefits come from early skill development. This investment leads to lifelong success, increased productivity, and reduced societal costs.

 
 

Heckman, James J. (2008). “Schools, Skills and Synapses,” Economic Inquiry, 46(3): 289-324

The Heckman Equation is an initiative of the Center for the Economics of Human Development. The Center conducts and synthesizes wide-ranging research that explores the circumstances under which people develop the skills necessary to achieve their fullest potential and thrive in the current economy. This research, guided by Nobel laureate James J. Heckman, brings together teams of the best researchers from throughout the world to explore complex and interrelated aspects of how individuals acquire human capital and how that shapes economic outcomes.