EC238A: Contemporary Economic Policy 1

Module Provider:

Economics

Number of credits:

20 [10 ECTS credits]

Level:

I (Intermediate)

Terms in which taught:

Autumn and Spring

Module Convenor:

Dr S Pavelin

Pre-requisites:

EC1F1A EC1F1B

Co-requisites:

Modules excluded:

Module version for:

2007/8

Aims:

Assessable learning outcomes:
This module is designed to examine contemporary real world applications of the economic principles covered in EC201A and EC202A. Consequently, it discusses the major problems that face policy makers in the world today and the light that economic theory can shed on them. At the end of the module, students should be able to:
(i) develop an understanding of the major economic problems and issues that face the UK and the rest of the world today, at both micro and macro levels;
(ii) develop an appropriate economic framework for analysing the issues under (i);
(iii) using the techniques under (ii), analyse the effectiveness or otherwise of different policy options.

Additional outcomes:
Students are required to give class presentations on module material. Therefore, through the classes, students are encouraged to improve their presentation skills before an audience of their peers

Outline content:
Topics covered include: Foreign direct investment; international development; supra-national institutions; competition policy.
However, since the module is intended to cover the most important economic policy issues of the day, the emphasis on each of the above will vary from year to year and, in some cases, new issues may be added or others removed.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:
The lectures will cover all the main module material, although students are required to follow closely media coverage of the main economic issues. In addition the tutorials are designed as primarily student-led discussion groups for each of the topics.

Contact hours:

Assessment:
Coursework
Two pieces of coursework are required on topics from EC238A.

Relative percentage of coursework
Coursework has a weight of 20% in the final assessment mark.

Penalties for late submission
Penalties for late submission will be in accordance with the University policy.

Examination
One 2-hour unseen written paper.
Part 2 examinations begin in the fourth week of the Summer term.

Requirements for a pass
A minimum mark of 40%.

Reassessment arrangements
Re-examination for Part 2 modules takes place in August/September of the same year.