Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Summer 2022 - ECON 855 G100

Theories of Economic Development (4)

Class Number: 2789

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    May 10 – Aug 8, 2022: Tue, 8:30–10:20 a.m.
    Burnaby

    May 10 – Aug 8, 2022: Fri, 1:30–2:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Characterization of non-growing economies; mechanics of the process of economic development; the role of economic and non-economic factors; structural transformation in economic development.

COURSE DETAILS:

The course is a graduate-level introduction to the field of Development Economics. There will be a particular emphasis on the application of economic theory to various development issues, although empirical research will certainly also be covered. We will cover both ‘micro’ and ‘macro’ aspects of development and will combine the study of ‘established’ and ‘cutting-edge’ research. In addition to lectures, class discussion will be a very important component of the course.     

Topics:

Some topics that we cover will include: a review of basic neoclassical growth models, coordination problems and poverty traps, the role of institutions (property rights) with a strong focus on political institutions, as well as culture and social capital. Time permitting, we will cover additional topics such as conflict, gender or marriage.

 

Grading

  • Weekly Quizzes 25%
  • Assignments 30%
  • Term Paper and Presentation 30%
  • Participation 15%

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

None. Readings will be drawn from journal articles and book chapters and made available on Canvas when not readily accessible online via the SFU library.


RECOMMENDED READING:

None

Graduate Studies Notes:

Important dates and deadlines for graduate students are found here: http://www.sfu.ca/dean-gradstudies/current/important_dates/guidelines.html. The deadline to drop a course with a 100% refund is the end of week 2. The deadline to drop with no notation on your transcript is the end of week 3.

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 SUMMER 2022

Teaching at SFU in summer 2022 will involve primarily in-person instruction.  Some courses may be offered through alternative methods (remote, online, blended), and if so, this will be clearly identified in the schedule of classes. 

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, online, or blended courses 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 summer 2022 term.