Module overview
The module will introduce students to key theories in the analysis of labour markets and to develop knowledge of the relevant institutional framework. The module aims to relate both theory and evidence to key policy issues.
Linked modules
Prerequisites: ECON1021 AND (ECON1020 OR ECON1022)
Aims and Objectives
Learning Outcomes
Knowledge and Understanding
Having successfully completed this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:
- the relation between labour market policy evaluation and the underlying model assumptions
- the central theoretical and practical concepts in labour economics
- the application of microeconomic principles and methods to the analysis of labour markets.
Transferable and Generic Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- use problem solving skills
- Use quantitative reasoning in economic and policy contexts
- communicate logical arguments in written form and through presentation
Subject Specific Intellectual and Research Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- abstract complex economic problems into models of the labour market to critically evaluate policy debates in the area
Syllabus
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.
Learning and Teaching
Teaching and learning methods
Lectures and small group sessions.
| Type | Hours |
|---|---|
| Teaching | 24 |
| Independent Study | 126 |
| Total study time | 150 |
Resources & Reading list
General Resources
To be assigned during the academic year.
Material on Blackboard: videos, readings, etc..
Textbooks
Labor Economics. McGraw Hill.
Assessment
Assessment strategy
Final report and oral presentation (worth 50% of the final mark), a group coursework (30%) and multiple choice tests (20%). This is supported by continuous formative assessment through problem sets. This is the same for internal repeat. Assessment for external repeat and referral is through 100% final assessment.
Summative
This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Final report and oral presentation | 50% |
| Multiple choice question | 20% |
| Group Coursework | 30% |
Referral
This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Coursework assignment(s) | 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 |
|---|---|
| Coursework assignment(s) | 100% |
Repeat Information
Repeat type: Internal & External