Welcome to "Making Education Markets Work"
Looking to share ideas and experiences that can enhance equity, efficiency, and productivity in education markets
Hi everyone—I’m Christopher Neilson, a Chilean-American professor of economics at Yale University and founder of TetherEducation and ConsiliumBots.
Throughout my career, I've explored how education markets work — and often fail to deliver. I’ve seen how well-intentioned policies can create inefficiencies, inequities, and unnecessary complexities, especially impacting underserved communities. At the same time, I've witnessed firsthand how smart market design, technology-driven innovations, and thoughtful government policy can transform these markets and significantly improve people's lives.
Having worked in government, academia, non-profits, and now as a startup founder, I have tried to make access to education more efficient and equitable. My research has shown that blending technology with economic insights generates solutions that reliably "work." Advising policymakers taught me that progress through government channels, though slow and sometimes frustrating, can yield substantial impact. On the flip side, the startup world offers a fast-paced and flexible environment, although launching and scaling solutions come with significant challenges.
On this Substack, expect me to nerd out on the industrial organization of education markets, digital platforms, and AI. I'll also openly share - and sometimes rant - about the trials and tribulations of collaborating with governments across Latin America, Europe, and the US.
My goal here is simple: to share ideas and experiences that can enhance equity, efficiency, and productivity in education markets—creating systems that truly benefit everyone.
What to Expect:
Accessible Economics: Clear, understandable explanations of market design and public policy in education markets.
Real-world Examples: Case studies from my ongoing projects in the US, Latin America, and beyond.
Tech Insights from an Economics Perspective: Insights into AI-driven solutions aimed at social good.
Policy Bloopers: Stories of how good policy intentions sometimes lead to unexpected and chaotic outcomes when politicians announce initiatives and someone has to implement them.
I'll post regularly—aiming for 2 thoughtful pieces each month. Subscription is free—join now to stay updated!
Subscribe below to join the journey toward better education markets.
Excited for the conversations ahead,
Chris