University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 20

ECTS credits : 10

Level : SCQF level 10

Semester: 2

Availability restrictions: Available to General Degree students with the permission of the Honours Adviser

Planned timetable: To be arranged

This module explores the microeconomic foundations of development economics. We will discuss topics such as poverty traps, labor markets, human capital, gender, public goods/service delivery and taxation, infrastructure, among others. In studying each of these topics, we will ask: what determines decision-making in low- and middle-income countries? What constraints do agents face? Is there scope to improve livelihoods through the actions of market participants, governments, international organisations (e.g. World Bank) and NGOs? What policies have been tried in different countries and how have they fared? This module places emphasis on developing analytical understanding of applied issues, while combining theory and empirical evidence. We will ultimately seek to draw useful policy conclusions.

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 20 hours of lectures over 11 weeks, 1-hour tutorials (x 5 weeks).

Scheduled learning hours: 25

Guided independent study hours: 175

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: Written Exam = 60%, Coursework = 40%

As defined by QAA
Written examinations : 60%
Practical examinations : 0%
Coursework: 40%

Re-assessment: 2-hour Written Examination = 100%

Personnel

Module coordinator: Dr S Dalwai
Module teaching staff: Dr Sumedh Dalwai
Module coordinator email sd293@st-andrews.ac.uk

Intended learning outcomes

• Be familiar with economic approaches to development, both theoretical and empirical.
• Be able to discuss policies aimed at unlocking development in low- and middle-income countries.
• Appreciate and understand the evaluation of developmental policies and interventions.
• Be familiar with key issues in contemporary development economics