Notes that economics courses use a model of perfect competition as a starting point for the analysis of competitive structures. Further notes this model does not work for an investigation of oligopolies. Presents a contestable markets model which can improve students' understanding of the imperfect competitive environment. (RKM)

Presents a classroom exercise which illustrates consumer equilibrium, the equimarginal principle, indifference curves, and income and substitution effects. States that students gain a better consumer equilibrium by linking together these elements of economic analysis. (GEA)

Discusses the content of the 'A' level (first year of college) economics course. Concludes that instructors must resist teaching more theory than students can absorb. Contends that greater depth on certain topics may be necessary, requiring other content to be shifted to later courses in the economics degree. (JDH)

A preview of a forthcoming series of economics television programs by Channel 4 in Great Britain is provided. The series will consist of 20 half-hour programs and is intended for adults. What the programs cover is described and educational back-up to be provided is discussed. (RM)

Reports on the International Research Seminar held at the University of London Institute of Education in July 1985. Topics include how economics instruction impacts students' attitudes and values, notions of economic literacy, curriculum reform, and teacher training. (JDH)

Reviews discussion of the relationship between marginal utility and indifference curves which has been presented in recent issues of "Economics." Concludes that indifference analysis does not embody the assumptions of marginal utility theory and that there is no simple relationship between these concepts that does not entail unacceptable…

Discusses the meaning and purpose of data-response questions in teaching economics on the secondary school level. Makes the case for using data-response material in the classroom and presents guidelines for using the material in ways which are meaningful to students. (Author/DB)

Describes how the testing of hypotheses about retail distribution can form the basis of local field work. A case study is presented involving the characteristics of a declining shopping area in Deptford, England. Tables, charts, and maps are included. (Author/DB)

Suggests that current economic events should be incorporated into simple textbook models. As an example, shows how some of the major aspects of the debate on macroeconomic policy can be dealt with by using a simple Keynesian expenditure model. (Author/DB)

Summarizes underlying tenets and policy implications of new classical and new Keynesian macroeconomics. Compares new approaches with orthodox Keynesian and monetarist schools of thought. Identifies the fundamental difference between new classical and new Keynesian models as the assumption regarding the speed of wage and price adjustment following…

Techniques for using surveys and questionnaires in economic education research are described. For journal availability see SO 504 303. (DE)

Notes introductory undergraduate economics textbooks have no formal analysis of the rationale for direct foreign investment by multinational firms. Examines this area in an attempt to develop more content information for undergraduate courses. (RKM)

Contends that a realistic approach to teaching economics requires learning about trade unions. Presents a role play of a trade union meeting that helps students think about how trade unions tackle problems. (BSR)

Highlights the special features of the language of economics which are likely to cause problems of understanding, and suggests ways to help students overcome them. (BSR)

Provides two computer programs, written in BASIC, to calculate average stock market price levels. The programs allow students to work directly from the raw price data that appear daily in the financial news. Teaching suggestions are provided. (JDH)