Dummy Variable Coefficient Proof

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around proving that the OLS estimator of the dummy variable coefficient (\delta) in a regression model is equal to the difference between the sample means of observations for which the dummy variable \(D_{i}\) equals 1 and those for which \(D_{i}\) equals 0. The scope includes mathematical reasoning and proof techniques related to ordinary least squares (OLS) estimation.

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant seeks help in proving that the OLS estimator of the dummy coefficient (\delta) can be expressed as the difference between the sample means for \(D_{i} = 1\) and \(D_{i} = 0\).
  • Another participant inquires about the knowledge of matrix algebra and the definition of the delta coefficient, suggesting starting from the general definition of OLS coefficients.
  • A participant mentions having derived that \(\delta = \frac{cov(D_{i}, Y_{i})}{Var(D_{i})}\) but is unsure how to express this in terms of sample means.
  • One reply suggests expanding the numerator and denominator and using a small sample example to aid understanding before generalizing.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

The discussion remains unresolved, with participants exploring different aspects of the proof without reaching consensus on the next steps or the final expression.

Contextual Notes

Participants express varying levels of familiarity with matrix algebra and the definitions involved, which may affect their ability to engage with the proof. There are also indications of missing assumptions regarding the sample size and distribution of the dummy variable.

i_not_alone
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Hi to all

I need to seek help with regard to this question.

Show that the OLS estimator of the dummy coefficient (\delta) in the regression model given by

Y_{i}=\beta_{1} + \deltaD_{i} + \upsilon_{i}

is equal to the difference between the sample mean of the observations for which D_{i} = 1 and the sample mean of the observations for which D _{i} =0.

You can click on the GIF file to see the question more properly.

So how do we go about solving this proof, and in mathematical form, how do we express the sample mean for observation which Di = 1 and Di = 0?

Hope I have presented myself clear! Help really needed. Thanks!
 

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Did you study matrix algebra? Can you write the definition of the delta coefficient? You can start from the general definition of OLS coefficients in a regression equation.
 
oh hi EnumaElish!

I did not study matrix algebra but I do know about the definition of delta coefficient, using the proof for OLS slope coeffecient proof, which we derive it from the differentiation of RSS/b1 and RSS/b2.

Now, I am stuck at this stage where I have proofed delta = cov (Di,Yi) / Var (Di).. haha.. so how do i carry on to express it into the sample mean for observation which Di = 1 and Di = 0?
 
Did you try to expand the numerator and the denominator? It could help your intuition if you assume four observations (say, three 1's and one 0) then apply the formula. Then you can generalize.
 
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