Economic Theory

Summary module description:
This module builds upon the previous microeconomic, macroeconomic, and mathematics courses studied. It is intended to introduce students to the basic concepts of economic modeling by applying previously learned economics in a more formal, structured way. In particular, students will learn what constitutes a formal model, how microfoundations form the basis of modern macroeconomic models, and how to use formal mathematical models to answer economic questions and analyze real world policies.

Aims:
The primary focus of this course is twofold: (1) understanding what constitutes a formal economic model and how they are constructed and (2) applying these modeling techniques to answer basic economic questions and to analyze real-world policies. This includes having a detailed understanding of the various parts of an economic model, expressing a formal model mathematically, understanding the application of microeconomic theories to macroeconomic models, understanding the differences between partial and general equilibrium models, and being able to use mathematical models to understand real-world economics. Additional content covered may include 1) application of theories such as the permanent income hypothesis and Ricardian equivalence 2) understanding the role of the First and Second Welfare Theorems in modeling 3) proving the existence and uniqueness of both steady state and dynamic equilibria and 4) understanding the impact of policy (for example fiscal and monetary policy) on equilibria and transitional dynamics.

Assessable learning outcomes:
Students should be able to understand the basic issues underlying the creation of a mathematically based economic models. In addition, they should be able to understand how basic microeconomic theories provide the underpinning for modern economics and how the concept of equilibrium (whether in steady state or dynamic) embodies both the mathematical and economic ?solution? to the question being asked. Finally, students should be able to apply simple economic models to real world situations and policy analysis.

Additional outcomes:
Students will be required to complete coursework such as problem sets, tests, essays, presentations, etc. In the process of completing these types of assignments, they must learn skills required to do relevant research, write reports, produce concise relevant presentations, understand technical articles, and apply theoretical knowledge to real world situations. In particular, students will better understand the role of rigorous, mathematical precision in modern economic theory.

Outline content:
Basic topics include: defining and understanding the basic components of an economic model, understanding the role of utility and profit maximization in a well-define economic model, understanding how all aspects of an economy are expressed precisely and mathematically, understanding the solution concept of equilibria, understanding the different types of equilibria and their properties, and using simple models to answer questions and analyze policies. Additional topics may include: application of theories such as the permanent income hypothesis and Ricardian equivalence, understanding the role of the First and Second Welfare Theorems in modeling, and proving the existence and uniqueness of both steady state and dynamic.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:
Detailed guidance on the topics covered will be provided in the 20 weekly lectures, together with examples, exercises and solutions to facilitate understanding of key concepts. Students may be required to do exercises corresponding to each topic, to read a significant amount of journal articles, and to undertake research using the library, internet, etc.

Summative Assessment Methods:
Written exam 50%
Set exercise 25%
Class test administered by School 25%

Other information on summative assessment:
Coursework may include a number of different methods for assessing student?s knowledge. These may include, but are not limited to:

Problem Sets: Numerous short assignments requiring students to provide short answers and numerically solve relevant problems

Essay: A written work intended to allow the student to demonstrate his/her ability to synthesize many of the concepts covered throughout the term. Usually 1000-3000 words in length, original in nature, and due by a specific date

Quizzes: Short tests intended to ascertain students understanding of recent topics discussed in class.

Test: An in-class exam aimed primarily at ascertaining a student?s understanding and comprehension of a subset of the materials covered during lectures.

The exact requirements of the module for a given term (i.e. essay specifics, etc.) will be explicitly detailed in the syllabus handed out at the beginning of each term in which the module is offered.

Coursework will count for 50% of the overall grade. The exact weights of the different pieces of coursework required will also be explicitly stated in the syllabus.

Formative assessment methods:

Penalties for late submission:
The Module Convener will apply the following penalties for work submitted late, in accordance with the University policy.
where the piece of work is submitted up to one calendar week after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): 10% of the total marks available for the piece of work will be deducted from the mark for each working day (or part thereof) following the deadline up to a total of five working days;
where the piece of work is submitted more than five working days after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): a mark of zero will be recorded.

The University policy statement on penalties for late submission can be found at: http://www.reading.ac.uk/web/FILES/qualitysupport/penaltiesforlatesubmission.pdf
You are strongly advised to ensure that coursework is submitted by the relevant deadline. You should note that it is advisable to submit work in an unfinished state rather than to fail to submit any work.

Length of examination:
One 3-hour unseen written paper.
Part 2 examinations are held in the Summer term.

Requirements for a pass:
A minimum overall mark of 40%.