Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2025 - ECON 355W D100

Economic Development (4)

Class Number: 1768

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Mon, 10:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

    Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Wed, 10:30–11:20 a.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    ECON 103 with a minimum grade of C- or ECON 113 with a minimum grade of A-; ECON 105 with a minimum grade of C- or ECON 115 with a minimum grade of A-; 60 units.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Analysis of theories of economic development. Consideration will be given to the requirements of successful development, to aspects of international co-operation, and to procedures of economic planning. Problems of emerging countries and models of various developing economies will be studied. Students with credit for ECON 355 or ECON 455 may not take this course for further credit. Writing/Quantitative.

COURSE DETAILS:

This course is an introduction to the diverse field of Development Economics. We will examine various explanations for why some populations, across space and time, are much poorer than others. We will cover both theoretical foundations and empirical evidence. Note that this course is designated as writing intensive (W) and, as such, will require the regular completion of written assignments.

Topics:

We begin with defining, measuring, and comparing ‘development’ outcomes. To organize our ideas, we briefly overview classic growth theories and discuss issues of multiple equilibria and poverty traps. We explore the role of geography, economic institutions, and political institutions. We then focus on specific topics, including financial markets and randomized controlled trials. Time permitting, we may examine other issues, including culture, conflict, women and fertility, household decision-making, and labour markets.

 

Grading

  • Weekly writing assignments 35%
  • Major writing assignment 20%
  • Weekly quizzes 35%
  • Participation 10%

Materials

RECOMMENDED READING:

Schaffner, J. (2013), Development Economics: Theory, Empirical Research, and Policy Analysis, Wiley Global Education.

 

Note: Further readings will be distributed throughout the course

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Department Undergraduate Notes:

Please note that, as per Policy T20.01, the course requirements (and grading scheme) outlined here are subject to change up until the end of the first week of classes.

Final exam schedules will be released during the second month of classes. If your course has a final exam, please ensure that you are available during the entire final exam period until you receive confirmation of your exam dates. 

Students requiring accommodations as a result of a disability must contact the Centre for Accessible Learning (CAL) at 778-782-3112 or caladmin@sfu.ca.

***NO TUTORIALS DURING THE FIRST WEEK OF CLASSES***

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

SFU’s Academic Integrity website http://www.sfu.ca/students/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating. Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the university community. Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the university. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the university. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.