NotesFAQContact Us
Collection
Advanced
Search Tips
Back to results
ERIC Number: ED238312
Record Type: RIE
Publication Date: 1983
Pages: 83
Abstractor: N/A
ISBN: ISBN-0-936826-17-7
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: N/A
Available Date: N/A
An Introduction to Benefit-Cost Analysis for Evaluating Public Expenditure Alternatives. Learning Packages in the Policy Sciences, PS-22.
LaPlante, Josephine M.; Durham, Taylor R.
A revised edition of PS-14, "An Introduction to Benefit-Cost Analysis for Evaluating Public Programs," presents concepts and techniques of benefit-cost analysis as tools that can be used to assist in deciding between alternatives. The goals of the new edition include teaching students to think about the possible benefits and costs of each alternative; to define what they foresee as program outputs and to consider possible undesirable consequences; and to recognize the trade-offs that are implicit in all decisions. Topics of the eight modules (16 exercises) include the following: classifying direct vs. indirect benefits, as well as tangibles vs. intangibles; pecuniary or price effects; the business model of benefit-costs analysis; business as a model for government decisions; supply and demand in the market for goods; challenges for valuation presented by government programs; the comparison of costs and benefits that occur at different times; shadow pricing; double-counting, and benefits valued as net savings. Everyday examples are used to present what are frequently difficult concepts and relationships for the student with little background in economics. A sample student evaluation form is appended. (Author/SW)
Policy Studies Associates, P.O. Box 337, Croton-on-Hudson, NY 10520 ($3.00).
Publication Type: Guides - Classroom - Learner; Tests/Questionnaires
Education Level: N/A
Audience: Students
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: Policy Studies Associates, Croton-on-Hudson, NY.
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Author Affiliations: N/A
Note: Revised. Supersedes PS-14.