Studies how training in economic education affects teacher optimism concerning the future of the U.S. economic system. Finds that economic education increases teacher optimism. Supports the hypothesis that degree-based and nondegree-based training have different impacts with higher optimism found in the degree-based training. (GG)

Examines the organization of the extended project that is part of the General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) A Level Business Studies examination. Provides a timetable for implementing the project. Includes student evaluations of the project. (LS)

Describes a computer simulation based on quarterly models of the U.S. economy during World War I, the Roaring Twenties, the Great Depression, and World War II. Recommends using these simulations to teach facts and knowledge, and as heuristic devices to develop an understanding of complex economic and historical relationships. (LS)

Investigates the effects on multiple choice test performance of altering the order and placement of questions and responses. Shows that changing the response pattern appears to alter significantly the apparent degree of difficulty. Response patterns become more dissimilar under certain types of response alterations. (LS)

Presents classroom activities that have been effectively used by teachers to sensitize students toward the complexities of life in rich and poor countries. Lists several guidelines for helping students learn about development. Sees development as a topic which can fit into a variety of curricula. (KO)

Asserts polls show that the general public, high school seniors, and college seniors have many misunderstandings about the U.S. economic system and its role in the international economy. Maintains that grade level programs need to be interdisciplinary and utilize active learning techniques. (CFR)

Argues that teachers often ignore the role of the world economy in U.S. history, leading students to conclude that global economic issues were not important to U.S. development. Describes an imaginary conversation between Benjamin Franklin and a social studies teacher in which Franklin discusses the significance of international trade and…

Asserts that, although teachers and history textbooks mention banks and money at several points in a typical U.S. history course, they are not accorded their proper significance. Discusses the role of banks and finance in U.S. history, with specific emphasis on the creation and impact of the Federal Reserve System. (CFR)

Reviews articles printed in six issues of the professional journal, "The Social Studies," published in 1992. Discusses recurring themes such as the New Social Studies movement, economics education, and children's literature. Maintains that the journal reflects the diversity of the social studies field. (CFR)

Reports on a study of efforts by 76 college economics departments to assess faculty teaching effectiveness. Discusses four assessment methods: (1) classroom visits; (2) teaching materials; (3) formal follow-up; and (4) informal soundings. Concludes that many feel uncomfortable with the evaluation process. (CFR)

Presents a model of the economic theory of regulation and recommends its use in undergraduate economics classes. Describes the use of computer-assisted instruction to teach the theory. Maintains that the approach enables students to gain access to graphs and tables that they produce themselves. (CFR)

A model combining formative and longitudinal program evaluation was applied to two programs (economics/business administration and engineering) at Uppsala University (Sweden) in which students are brought together after two years in regional institutions. Useful features of the evaluation method are discussed and results of job market follow-up…

Maintains that George A. Custer's "Last Stand" can be used in teaching economics classes. Explains how economic incentives and the self-interest of those involved fit within the public choice analysis model. (CFR)

Describes the administration of the U.S. Test of Economic Literacy (TEL) to eleventh and twelfth grade students in the United Kingdom and the United States. Compares British and U.S. test results. Reports that British students performed better than their U.S. counterparts. Discusses differences between British and U.S. research in economics…

Reviews 11 normative principles of capitalist economics. Contends that these principles form the basis for much of economics education in the United States and Western society. Argues that to save the world from massive environmental degradation, economics education must be completely restructured to focus on ecological concerns. (CFR)