A rationale, survey of research findings, and research needs for economics education are offered. The case for the universality of economic literacy has been forwarded by several leading economists. Economics education is seen as an important key for the survival of humanity; the task of the educator is to reduce partial ignorance, misinformation,…

This booklet presents a research-based rationale for teaching economics at the middle/junior high school level in the United States. Chapter 1, "Introduction," describes the project in which the rationale was developed and outlines the remainder of the document. Chapter 2, "Elements of a Rationale for Middle School Economic Education," presents…

The document provides an annotated list of 130 games and simulations for elementary and secondary economics courses, outlines procedures for using games, and reviews research studies on social science games and simulations. It is presented in five chapters. Chapter I lists selection criteria: the simulation/game must use the role playing features…

The picture that emerges from a review of survey findings is disturbing: instruction in economics tends to be minimal (or nonexistent) for many precollege students, and teacher training in economics is limited. Curriculum structure, teacher training, and the development and use of economics materials are interrelated problems facing economics…

Reviews research evaluating the effectiveness of consumer and home economics education, including political and methodological problems; statewide studies in West Virginia, Texas, Iowa, Michigan, and Indiana; and current efforts for a national assessment. (SK)

The literature on continuing education (CE) in dietetics was reviewed. The review focused on the following: motivators and barriers for participation in continuing dietetic education, formats for CE in dietetics, and approaches to assessing learner needs. The role of professional associations, the existence of voluntary credentialing programs, the…

The primary purpose of this paper is to examine negative findings regarding the use of simulations in economics education and to make suggestions for effective use of computerized economic simulations. The first part of the paper reviews experiential learning theory and previous economics education studies by Wentworth and Lewis (1972); Chismar,…

How economics can be taught through a student-developed textbook is described. Having secondary students construct their own economics textbook can be an exciting process. During the initial six- or nine-week segment of a course, materials can be collected and organized to make a book that the class can study for the rest of the semester or year.…

This report offers ideas for expanding schools' partnerships with employers. These partnerships can raise academic achievement, college-going rates, and career-awareness for low-income and minority students. Topics include a discussion of the school-to-work movement and career guidance; raising awareness through workplace visits; summer…

This study began as an examination of the amount and scope of economics information taught in three high school history classes. Results revealed that the teachers' inflexible control of information caused students to become alienated from the classroom activities and cynical about the validity of any information conveyed there. (AM)

Reports on a study of faculty perceptions of critical thinking instruction in 6 disciplines in 39 higher education institutions. Finds that graduate programs in economics teach a different form of problem solving. Recommends that critical thinking skills be given priority in academic programs. (CFR)

Reviews research suggesting poor economic understanding among elementary school students. Presents findings of a study of the economic comprehension of 248 elementary education majors. Reveals that those students share the younger children's unfamiliarity with economics. Argues that improving teachers' economics training will enhance the economic…

Discusses the concept of "Giffen goods" as it applies to price theory in economics instruction. Provides a graphic presentation and analysis of Giffen goods and behavior. Includes examples of Giffen behavior that can be used to illustrate the concept. (CFR)

Addresses the issue of global education in the community college, stating that because of the expanding global economy, community colleges must redefine their role, as well as address the need to internationalize some disciplines, institute more efficient language programs, and include more study abroad programs for both students and faculty in…

Although 17 studies of attitude change among economics students in American secondary schools and colleges had been conducted by 1981, analysis of this research indicates that such studies are still in their infancy. Numbers of students participating in these studies ranged from 922 in 27 classes in Sewell's (1963) study of attitude change among…