Module overview
This module introduces economic principles, theories, and methods of analysis. It provides a framework for the application of economic theory to real-world problems.
The module will cover key concepts in economics. It will provide a non-technical overview of the field.
The module is aimed at non-economists and so does not involve advanced mathematical techniques. Some basic mathematics will be taught. No prior knowledge of economics is required.
One of the pre-requisites for ECON2013
Aims and Objectives
Learning Outcomes
Knowledge and Understanding
Having successfully completed this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:
- Economic concepts such as opportunity cost, marginal analysis and signalling
- Key economic thinkers and their contributions to economic thought and to public debates
Subject Specific Intellectual and Research Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Identify the relevant economic concept which needs to be used in a particular case.
- Draw out supply and demand diagrams and interpret them
- Critically evaluate the assumptions and limitations of the economic theories and arguments presented in class
- Use formulae to calculate key economic indicators such as elasticities and consumer surplus
Transferable and Generic Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Apply theory to real-world problems
- Identify which economic theories form part of particular political arguments
Syllabus
The following main topics will be covered in this module:
Key thinkers in Economics
Supply and Demand
Elasticities
Taxation
Market Structures
Game Theory
Labour and Unemployment
Market Failure
Insurance
Money and Banks
Shares
Learning and Teaching
Teaching and learning methods
There are 24 lectures and 8 tutorials in this module.
Extra online learning materials are also provided.
| Type | Hours |
|---|---|
| Teaching | 32 |
| Independent Study | 118 |
| Total study time | 150 |
Resources & Reading list
General Resources
The Economist Magazine. A magazine aimed at a well-informed readership. This magazine discusses economic issues and also introduces readers to key concepts. It is available online via the University library, in hard copy in the Library or by subscription.
Internet Resources
Textbooks
Gregory Mankiw (2014). Economics.
Assessment
Assessment strategy
The final examination has a weight of 80%.
There are two assessed courseworks which each count for 10% of the module mark. Each coursework consists of an online multiple choice test. This is individual work.
This is the same for internal repeat. Assessment for referral and external repeat is through 100% through final examination.
Summative
This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Online test | 10% |
| Online test | 10% |
| Final Assessment | 80% |
Referral
This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Final Assessment | 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 Assessment | 100% |
Repeat Information
Repeat type: Internal & External