Contends that the production possibilities frontier (PPF) appears only in preliminary discussions of scarcity in principles textbooks. Illustrates how linking the Keynesian cross and the production possibilities frontier can yield worthwhile results while maintaining analytical simplicity. (CFR)

Contends that it is widely believed that cheap labor in poor countries attracts foreign investors. Asserts that historical evidence indicates that past patterns of direct foreign investment in poor countries are inconsistent with the cheap-labor argument. Includes two figures and one table. (CFR)

Contends that the Commission on Graduate Education in Economics report addresses issues related to doctoral programs but does not provide information on master's degree programs. Reports on a study of 123 colleges offering master's degrees in economics. Finds a surprising lack of variation among the programs. (CFR)

Reports on a study of the number of four-year Bachelor's degrees awarded in economics in 1993-94. Finds that the number of undergraduate degrees in economics continues to decline. Presents three tables of statistical data and discusses possible reasons for this decline. (CFR)

Presents results of a study examining how introductory economics students use graphic analysis. Concludes that the difficulties students have in analyzing an economic problem graphically result from problems with concept formation. Suggests that videotaping can assist instructors to understand and anticipate the learning processes that students…

Asserts that errors frequently are made in teaching about the second fundamental theorem of welfare economics. Describes how this issue usually is taught in undergraduate economics courses. Discusses how this interpretation contains errors and may hinder students' analysis of public policy regarding welfare systems. (CFR)

A computer modeling program was used in eight sections of a college finance course to help students understand how changing variables changes outcomes in quantitative models. Results suggest the program was effective in meeting that objective, though not all students were aware of or acknowledged its benefits. (MSE)

Maintains that cheating in college-level economics courses is a serious problem. Presents findings based on the randomized response approach from 443 students at 2 major universities. Finds that at least 42% of college students have cheated on at least one examination. (CFR)

Argues that the return-to-scale concept is important in explaining to more advanced students how production structures underlie costs. Reviews Christopher Ross Bell's graphical analysis, contending that its argument suggests a variable-returns-to-scale function rather than one exhibiting decreasing returns to scale. Explores classic views and the…

Presents an instructional system that integrates computer simulation and computer graphics for economic models presented as equation systems. Describes the Model Laboratory System, an instructional system, developed at the University of Wisconsin at La Crosse. (DB)

Maintains that university economics classes focus on mainstream economics and neglect ethical values. Reports on a study of 511 university students and 645 households in Zurich, Switzerland, and Berlin, Germany. Finds that students' evaluation of fairness in economic transactions remains stable during the period of time they participate in…

This study explores the effects of cooperative and mastery learning methods, alone and in combination, on first and second grade students' learning and retention of basic economic facts. A 2 X 2 (cooperative X mastery) factorial design compared the achievement of 120 students randomly assigned by grade level stratification to one of four treatment…

This book presents descriptions of 17 courses in education, the humanities, social sciences, business, and the arts that acknowledge cultural diversity and invite students to understand and respect that diversity. Many of the courses focus on student-centered approaches to instruction. Following an introduction by the editors, syllabi in the book…

This curriculum outline presents the components of a course which introduces students to the modern economies of Asia and their relationship and interdependence with the United States economy. First, the goals and student objectives of the course are listed. Next, the course outline and assignments are presented, emphasizing the following basic…

Educators should assess the economics curricula in order to determine whether the latest and most accurate views of economic life in the United States and the world are taught to high school students. Economic literacy involves knowing and applying fundamental economic theories in order to make rational decisions about the use of limited…