Module overview
This module gives an introduction into economic policy analysis that is based on empirical data. A range of economic policy questions covering different areas of economics will be presented. Policy recommendations will be derived using analytical economic concepts and analysis of empirical data. Students will be familiarised with basic methods of data analysis for economic policy.
Aims and Objectives
Learning Outcomes
Subject Specific Intellectual and Research Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- be familiar with using standard software (such as Excel) for statistical computations and economic data analysis
- retrieve, organise, analyse and present economic data in an informative manner.
- use data for basic statistical inference on the quantitative or qualitative workings of economic policies.
Transferable and Generic Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- select and access a range of data sources to use for addressing economic policy question
- use quantitative reasoning and analyse and interpret data using standard software tools.
Knowledge and Understanding
Having successfully completed this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:
- the application of basic economic theory and economic reasoning to the analysis of economic policy
- the relationship between economic policy recommendations and the theoretical and empirical features of the economic analysis that underlie such recommendations
Syllabus
The module presents a number of policy cases (involving e.g. problems of pollution, credit rationing, taxation), deriving possible implications and consequences of different economic policies and interventions, both analytically and empirically. Empirical methods and use of data are taught as and when needed to address the specific policy cases.
Learning and Teaching
Teaching and learning methods
Lectures, tutorials, computer lab sessions
| Type | Hours |
|---|---|
| Tutorial | 8 |
| Independent Study | 118 |
| Lecture | 24 |
| Total study time | 150 |
Resources & Reading list
Textbooks
Daren Acemoglu, David Laibson, John A List. Economics. Pearson.
Assessment
Assessment strategy
Continuous assessment through two group coursework assignments (25% each) and a final in-person exam (50%), supported by formative assessment in the form of non-graded online tests during the semester. Internal repeats follow the same assessment structure. Referral and external repeat assessment are through a 100% final in-person exam.Summative
This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Coursework assignment(s) | 25% |
| Final Exam | 50% |
| Coursework assignment(s) | 25% |
Referral
This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Final Exam | 100% |
Repeat
An internal repeat is where you take all of your modules again, including any you passed. An external repeat is where you only re-take the modules you failed.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Final Exam | 100% |
Repeat Information
Repeat type: Internal & External