Introduction to Development Economics (L2105)
Introduction to Development Economics
Module L2105
Module details for 2008 cohort.
18 credits
FHEQ Level 5
Module Outline
The course is concerned with the economies of developing countries.
The central focus is on the use of basic economic analysis to explore the nature of some of the main problems which they face and possible policy solutions.
The following topics will be covered: the nature of economics as a social science; structural characteristics of developing economies; historical experiences of economic growth; theories of economic development; the nature and extent of poverty and inequality; population growth and development; rural-urban migration and the significance of urban growth; the role of education in economic development; agriculture and rural development; the environment and development; trade theory and the trade policy debate; south-south trade and economic integration; macro-economic instability and stabilisation; foreign finance, investment and aid.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the course, a successful student should be able to:
1. Demonstrate basic knowledge of a range of conceptual questions and policy issues relating to the economics of development
2. Demonstrate an awareness of the diversity of both conditions in, and the development experience of, low and middle income economies.
3. Demonstrate basic knowledge of the core reading, with some appreciation of the subtlety of debates about economic development and of the underlying logic of different theoretical perspectives.
4. Demonstrate a basic understanding of analytical techniques which are used by economists, including simple graphs and equations.
Generic outcomes
1. A basic understanding of a] how to make a seminar presentation, including the preparation of a handout and b] how to organise, structure and write an essay, with proper utilisation of evidence
2. Correct referencing and bibliographies in essays
3. An understanding of how to take notes in lectures and from reading and how to access and use internet materials.
4. Debating skills: thinking on the spot, clear articulation of ideas and questions and recognition of the need for good preparation in order to respond to questions effectively.
| Type | Timing | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Unseen Examination | Summer Term | 100.00% |
Timing
Submission deadlines may vary for different types of assignment/groups of students.
Weighting
Coursework components (if listed) total 100% of the overall coursework weighting value.
| Term | Method | Duration | Week pattern |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring & Summer Terms | SEMINAR | 1 hour | 011111111100 |
| Spring & Summer Terms | LECTURE | 1 hour | 111111111000 |
How to read the week pattern
The numbers indicate the weeks of the term and how many events take place each week.
Dr Julie Litchfield
Assess convenor, Convenor
http://www.sussex.ac.uk/profiles/110884
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