Data Science · Advanced level

Advanced level · Module 2: Predictive Modelling in Data Science Projects · Lesson 3 of 4

Inclusion and Exclusion Errors

Evaluate targeting models by who is wrongly included and wrongly excluded, overall and by area.

In this lesson you will

  • Calculate inclusion and exclusion error rates
  • Choose cut-offs considering budget and fairness

Key concepts

inclusion errorexclusion errorcoverage and budgetgroup-wise errors

The lesson

Targeting errors have names: inclusion errors give assistance to households not in need; exclusion errors leave needy households out. Exclusion errors usually do greater harm.

The cut-off is set by budget and priorities: covering 30% of households gives a different balance of errors than covering 50%.

Calculate errors by area, gender of household head and other groups. A model that works well overall may exclude many needy households in remote areas.

Step by step

  1. Calculate inclusion and exclusion errors at two coverage levels.
  2. Break exclusion errors down by area.
  3. Compare with the current rule.
  4. Recommend a cut-off.

Practice activity

Complete the targeting error analysis from the practical activity.

Expected result: Error tables by group with a justified recommendation.

Check your understanding

  1. What is an exclusion error in targeting?

    Show answer

    A household in need that is not selected.

  2. Why break errors down by area?

    Show answer

    Good overall performance can hide high exclusion in some areas.

Taught live by an instructor — online or in person. Free course lessons are for self-study and do not lead to a certificate — see registration options.