Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2021 - ECON 102 D100

The World Economy (3)

Class Number: 3100

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 8 – Dec 7, 2021: Mon, 2:30–5:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Dec 13, 2021
    Mon, 8:30–11:30 a.m.
    Burnaby

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

An overview of the broad economic trends in the development of the world economy over the last five decades with reference to the major debates related to economic interdependence, development and growth, globalization, and the role of the major multilateral economic institutions (IMF, World Bank, OCED, ILO, UN). (lecture/tutorial) Breadth-Social Sciences.

COURSE DETAILS:

Description:

This breadth course covers at least two topics among the following ones:

  • Globalization: The invention of the steam engine and computers had large impacts on globalization. The same is likely to be true today with AI. Understanding the different phases of globalization provides insights about international specialization, development policies, inequalities within and across countries, as well as the future of globalization.
  • The future of work: some people are optimistic that enough jobs will go around; others are more pessimistic. We’ll review what we know today about how technology is shaping jobs and the labor force.
  • Environmental adjustments and economic activities: There is an acceleration of environmental commitments both public and private. Most recognize the necessity of moving away from a carbon economy but many fear for their jobs while others see growth and opportunities. This part reviews the economic issues associated with environmental adjustments.

This course provides a simple introduction to a few big issues that are shaping the world economy and, along with it, to basic economic concepts helping shed light on them. This course is useful and relevant to all students in social sciences, history, business, communication, and generally to anyone looking for a deeper understanding of the world economy.

There is no required textbook for this course and no weekly tutorial. The relevant material will be in the form of online readings, podcasts and videos.

Grading

  • Midterm 35%
  • Final exam 50%
  • In-class participation and questions 15%

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 web site 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

TEACHING AT SFU IN FALL 2021

Teaching at SFU in fall 2021 will involve primarily in-person instruction, with approximately 70 to 80 per cent of classes in person/on campus, with safety plans in place.  Whether your course will be in-person or through remote methods will be clearly identified in the schedule of classes.  You will also know at enrollment whether remote course components will be “live” (synchronous) or at your own pace (asynchronous).

Enrolling in a course acknowledges that you are able to attend in whatever format is required.  You should not enroll in a course that is in-person if you are not able to return to campus, and should be aware that remote study may entail different modes of learning, interaction with your instructor, and ways of getting feedback on your work than may be the case for in-person classes.

Students with hidden or visible disabilities who may need class or exam accommodations, including in the context of remote learning, are advised to register with the SFU Centre for Accessible Learning (caladmin@sfu.ca or 778-782-3112) as early as possible in order to prepare for the fall 2021 term.