Introduction to Economics For Non-Economists

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

Subject Specific Intellectual and Research Skills

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

Critically evaluate the assumptions and limitations of the economic theories and arguments presented in class
Draw out supply and demand diagrams and interpret them
Identify the relevant economic concept which needs to be used in a particular case.
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:

Identify which economic theories form part of particular political arguments
Apply theory to real-world problems

Knowledge and Understanding

Having successfully completed this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:

Key economic thinkers and their contributions to economic thought and to public debates
Economic concepts such as opportunity cost, marginal analysis and signalling

Learning and Teaching

Teaching and learning methods

There are 24 lectures and 8 tutorials in this module. Extra online learning materials are also provided.

Study time
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

HS Talks.

Khan Academy.

In Our Time.

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.

Breakdown
Method	Percentage contribution
Final Assessment	80%
Online test	10%
Online test	10%

Referral

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

Breakdown
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.

Breakdown
Method	Percentage contribution
Final Assessment	100%

Repeat Information

Repeat type: Internal & External