ØASØK4000 Macroeconomic Policy Course description

In macroeconomics, students try to understand the relationships between aggregate economic variables such as inflation, unemployment, income and production and why they vary. In this course, students will learn how economic policy such as monetary and fiscal policy can influence the macroeconomic situation. The course builds on Macroeconomics I.;

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After completing the course, students will acquired the learning outcomes defined in knowledge, skills and general competence:

Knowledge

The student has in-depth knowledge of

• models that can be used to analyse economic policy
• how cyclical fluctuations arise and how they can be counteracted through policy
• how institutions can influence policies
• financial crises
• open economy, monetary unions

Skills

The student is capable of

• explaining important relationships between macroeconomic variables
• using models to analyse macroeconomic issues
• analysing how macroeconomic policy can influence economic variables such as activity and inflation
• assessing current economic policy

Varied forms of teaching will be used, and the course will combine lectures, guest lectures, class discussions and practical computer exercises.

Plenary lectures.

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Written school exam (4;hours).

Calculator (see separate regulations).

One dictionary (either first language-English/English-first language or English/English)

The course builds on a course in social science research methods at bachelor's degree level and a foundation course in statistical methodology. Knowledge of spreadsheets (such as Excel) or database programs is an advantage. This course is a compulsory common course that students are recommended to take in the first semester of the programme. Through a series of exercises, students develop their skills in practical use of quantitative data.;

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Knowledge

The student

• in-depth knowledge of relevant analysis methods
• insight into the use of quantitative data in academic work and professional life
• an understanding of how models are used in social sciences, and is capable of relating research questions, context and data to the choice of method

Skills

The student is capable of

• analysing quantitative data to answer research questions
• planning own quantitative research and assess the results of others

Five assignments for submission to be prepared by groups of up to five students. The total scope of the submissions shall not exceed 20 pages. All the assignments must be approved before a student can sit the exam in the course. If the assignments are not approved, the student;will be given one opportunity to submit a new or improved version. The lecturer will inform students about the deadlines for submission.