“End-line Data Collection Surveys for a Randomized Controlled Trial on a Virtual Job Fair and Job Preference Signaling in ICT Sector” focuses on the data collection phase of a research study conducted to evaluate the impact of a virtual job fair and job preference signaling in the ICT sector. This randomized controlled trial aims to understand the effectiveness of these interventions in improving job matching and employment outcomes for individuals in the ICT industry.
The description highlights the significance of the study in addressing the challenges of job matching and recruitment in the digital age. It emphasizes the use of innovative approaches such as virtual job fairs and job preference signaling to bridge the gap between job seekers and employers in the ICT sector.
The surveys conducted during the end-line data collection phase gather valuable information on the experiences, preferences, and employment outcomes of participants. The data collected enables researchers to assess the effectiveness of the interventions, identify key factors influencing job preferences and decision-making, and evaluate the overall impact on employment in the ICT sector.
The research study contributes to the body of knowledge on job market dynamics and provides evidence-based insights to inform policy decisions and improve employment strategies in the ICT sector. By leveraging technology and innovative approaches, it aims to enhance job matching processes, reduce information asymmetry, and facilitate better outcomes for job seekers and employers alike.
The findings from the end-line data collection surveys have the potential to inform future interventions, programs, and policies aimed at promoting employment opportunities, fostering skills development, and enhancing the efficiency of job markets in the ICT sector.
Through this rigorous research study, the aim is to generate evidence that can guide stakeholders in creating a more inclusive, efficient, and dynamic job market that maximizes the potential of individuals in the ICT sector.
Funding authority
Asian Development Bank (ADB)
Project Investigators
- Dr. Norihiko Matsuda, Department of Economics, Florida International University (FIU), USA.
- Mr. Ryotaro Hayashi, Social Sector Economist, Human and Social Development Division, South Asia Department, ADB
Project Duration
1 YEAR +
Project Period
From November 2021 to December 2022
BACKGROUND OF THE PROJECT
Despite several potential economic and social advantages especially during this Covid-19 pandemic time, virtual job fairs are rarely conducted in Bangladesh and other developing countries, and their effectiveness is unknown. Hence, by conducting a randomized control trial (RCT) under the joint initiative between the Asian Development Bank, a Bangladesh online job platform, Bdjobs.com, and a research team at Florida International University, this study aims to rigorously evaluate the effectiveness of virtual job fairs in Bangladesh. Additionally, this study aims to evaluate the impacts of a job preference signaling mechanism that allows job applicants to credibly express their true interests to employers.
The ADB has chosen MOMODa FOUNDATION, which is a research-oriented development organization in Bangladesh, as the survey firm for its rich experience in project implementation in collaboration with international academic and research institutions. As the survey firm, the MOMODa Foundation will conduct two end-line surveys of employers and job seekers.
The project is now in Preparatory Phase. In this phase, an experienced survey team from the MOMODa is ready for pilot testing for this study. Based on the pilot testing, the MOMODa Team will assess the procedure used for testing, check product readiness for full-scale implementation, the better decisions on time and resource allocation, the target population’s reaction to the study, and measure the success of the study. It will also give the team a chance to practice activities they will use for the usability test. Then 1st end-line survey (December 2021 -January 2022) and 2nd end-line survey (July-August 2022) will be conducted from 110 employers and 2560 jobseekers (1280 treatment and 1280 control) based on a telephonic survey of the job seekers and in-person interviews of the employers.
KEY FEATURES OF THE PROJECT
- Objectives: The purpose of the study is to rigorously evaluate the effectiveness of virtual job fairs and job preference signaling.
- Sample Size: 110 employers and 2560 job seekers who took part in the ICT virtual job fair organized jointly by Bdjobs.com, FIU, and ADB.
- Data Collection: 110 employers and 2560 jobseekers (1280 treatment and 1280 control) will participate in the study. 1st end-line survey will be conducted from December 2021 to January 2022 and 2nd end-line survey will be conducted from July to August 2022.
- Outcome: this research will help improve future virtual job fairs and job search platforms.