Labour Economics

Learning Outcomes

Learning Outcomes

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of how labour markets work in theory and in practice
• Use quantitative reasoning in economic contexts
• Make a critical evaluation of current policy debates in the area
• Apply economic principles to the analysis of labour market issues;
• Use problem solving skills
• Improve your written and oral communication skills

The module aims to relate both theory and evidence to key policy issues. The module reviews key developments in modern labour markets. It takes as its starting point the theory of competitive

labour markets, analysing the role of demand and supply factors in determining the wage structure. We analyse the role of investment in education and training in determining the interpersonal wage structure. The second part of the module focuses on those aspects of the labour market that are more difficult to explain in terms of standard competitive theory. We look at imperfectly competitive labour markets; we explore the implications of imperfect information

for the operation of the labour market and the role of various labour market institutions. We will be looking at different methods used in this area, from economic theory to empirical and, possibly, experimental methods.

Teaching and learning methods

Lectures and small group sessions.

Resources & Reading list

General Resources

Material on Blackboard: videos, readings, etc..

To be assigned during the academic year.

Textbooks

Labor Economics. McGraw Hill.

Assessment strategy

Final Assessment (70% of the final mark), a group video presentation (20%) and continuous successful participation in class (10%). In the event of you having to re-sit this unit, your presentation and participation marks will not be carried forward

Summative

This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.

Referral

This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.

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.

Repeat Information

Repeat type: Internal & External