Development Economics

ECTS : 2

Volume horaire : 18

Description du contenu de l'enseignement :

Course description 
This course is an introduction to Development Economics, a subject that deals with the economic transformation of developing countries. Using a mix of simple theory and empirics, the goal is to provide a broad overview of the key topics that Development Economists work on, and a good understanding of both the challenges that developing countries face in their process of social and economic transformation and that individuals confront striving to leave poverty behind.
 

Topics that will be discussed include: the meaning and measurement of economic development and its historical evolution, the concepts and measurement of poverty and inequality and the links between growth, poverty and income distribution. Selected readings within these topics are chosen to highlight the methodologies that development economists use to study these questions and develop the analytical skills necessary to evaluate economic policy choices in developing economies.
Course structure

1. Introduction What is development? Indicators and issues
2. History of thought in Development Economics
3. Poverty and Vulnerability
4. Inequality and Inequity
5. Explaining Economic Growth and its links with poverty and inequality.
6. Impact Evaluation of Development Policies and Programs

Compétence à acquérir :

 Objectives:
The course aims to provide an outline of the main issues underpinning development economics today, by outlining simple theory and providing extensive applied evidence from developing economies.

Learning outcomes
On completion of the course students will have:
- an increased understanding of the development process and the constraints faced by developing economies.
- an increased ability to apply economic tools to analyse problems of underdevelopment and to critically assess the economic policies of developing economies.
- an increased ability to interpret and critically evaluate empirical evidence.

Mode de contrôle des connaissances :

 Assignments and grading
Written exam (100%)

The numerical grade distribution will dictate the final grade. The passing grade for a course is 10/20.

Class participation: Active class participation – this is what makes classes lively and instructive. Come on time and prepared. Class participation is based on quality of comments, not quantity.
Exam policy: In the exam, students will not be allowed to bring any document (except if allowed by the lecturer).

Academic integrity
Be aware of the rules in Université Paris Dauphine about plagiarism and cheating during exams. All work turned in for this course must be your own work, or that of your own group. Working as part of a group implies that you are an active participant and fully contributed to the output produced by that group.
 

Bibliographie, lectures recommandées :

Provided through intranet.