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Development Economics

Module Code: EC4041

Module Title: Development Economics

  • ECTS Weighting: 15
  • Semester/Term Taught: Michaelmas + Hilary Term
  • Contact Hours: 44 hours of lectures and 10 hours of tutorials
  • Module Personnel: Lecturers – Carol Newman / Gaia Narciso

Learning Outcomes

Having successfully completed this module, students will be able to:

  • Confidently discuss papers in the field of Development Economics;
  • Critically evaluate contributions to the field of Development Economics.
  • Solve theoretical models;
  • Discuss the results of empirical models;

Module Content

The course will cover a range of topics in the field of Development Economics. We will begin Michealmas Term by providing an overview of the main methodologies used in the field focussing in particular on the experimental approach to economics and behavioural economics more generally. We then provide an overview of the key challenges facing low-income countries focussing in particular on poverty and economic growth. We also discuss briefly the role of foreign aid. We will cover topics of relevance to developing country economies including agriculture, industry and the informal sector. We will conclude the first semester with a topic on political economy focussing on corruption and how it affects economic development.

During Hilary Term we will study how informal markets operate in developing countries and we will discuss the functioning of credit and insurance sectors, with an emphasis on how social norms can affect economic outcomes. Next, we will cover issues related to health, education and migration. We will then cover some benchmark theories of democratization and institutions. Next, we will analyse recent contributions on colonial origins and civil conflict.

Throughout the course there will be a strong emphasis on experimental settings. Active participation of students will be sought.

Recommended Reading List

This module will cover state-of-the-art contributions in the fields of Development Economics. A detailed reading list will follow.

Module Pre Requisite

EC2010

Assessment Details

The overall grade for the course is based on the end-of-year examination (70%) plus two pieces of project work to be handed in during the year (30%).

Module Website

Blackboard