Introduction to economics

Academic year: 2010-2011 Course code module FTEBAAE100 Semester: 1st semester Credits: 6 Study load (hours) 168 Theory (hours): 60,00 Practice/Exercises(hours): 15,00 Other (hours): Part-time program: Instructor(s) André Van Poeck Jan Bouckaert Kathleen Van Deun Language of instruction: Dutch Semester exam information: exam in the 1st semester Contract restriction information: 1. Prerequisites *Algemene competenties No knowledge in the field of economy. Limited use of mathematical concepts. *Sequentiality None 2. Objectives (expected learning outcomes) To provide a basic insight into how the economy functions and the behaviour of manufacturers and consumers. To become acquainted with economic reasoning and methods. To learn the correct terminology. Arouse interest in current economic affairs. The seminars are application-oriented. 3. Course content Following a description of the economic problem and the method of economic science, we deal with microeconomic subjects: the market forces; government intervention in the market; the study of consumer decisions; the description of production processes by means of production and cost functions; the behaviour of the manufacturer in alternative market forms. We also deal with the following macroeconomic subjects: macroeconomic variables; economic growth and macroeconomic balance; unemployment and inflation; monetary and budgetary politics. The last part is specifically dedicated to the international dimension of the economy: international trade, balance of payments, exchange rate, monetary union. 4. Teaching method Direct contact: Lectures Exercise sessions Tutorials 5. Assessment method Exam: Closed book Multiple choice 6. Compulsory reading – study material De Borger, B. and A. Van Poeck, Algemene Economie, Uitgeverij De Boeck, 2004 7. Recommended reading - study material None. 8. Tutoring / laatste aanpassing: last update: 24/09/2010 13:55 ilke.franquet