The module provides an alternative to students carrying out an economics research project in the dissertation module. Some students lack the necessary analytical, quantitative and research skills necessary for a piece of original research. This module will give such students the opportunity to investigate an area of economics in depth by critically reviewing the literature on a chosen subject.
Students will be given a set of questions with readings. They can also construct their own question so long as it is approved. Each student would write a different essay. Examples of questions are: what evidence exists on the success(es) of micro lending schemes? Can active labour market policies reduce long term unemployment? Can economists explain voting behaviour? Students are taught about what is required for an extended critical review of the literature and advised about what should be contained in an essay on their topic. They are also advised about how to present a poster session.
Total contact hours: 7 hours
Private study hours: 143
Total study hours: 150
Either this module or EC5410 - Economics Dissertation are compulsory for Single Honours degree programmes in Economics.
This module is optional for students registered on Joint Honours degree programmes in Economics.
This module is not available to students across other degree programmes in the University.
Presentation (20%)
Extended Essay (5000 words) (80%)
Reassessment Instrument: Like for like
B. Atkinson and S. Johns, Studying Economics, Palgrave, 2001
Other general books and advice on undergraduate extended essays are held by the library and Student learning Advisory Service. Additional readings will be given for the selected topics/questions. The information for individual topics will be accessed from the periodicals and books held in the economics section of the library and the Internet where appropriate. No additional books or journals will be required for the library.
See the library reading list for this module (Canterbury)
On completion of this module, you will be able to:
* frame, motivate and analyse a research question
* search, analyse, understand and critically review a large body of literature.
* adapt and learn from set-backs in the research process.
* think critically and apply your analytical skills to real world issues.
* demonstrate a critical and in-depth knowledge of one particular area of economics.
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