Describes an economics class experiment where students ranked the quality of baked pies according to limited information. The limited sets of information included brand name and packaging only, price only, advertising only, word-of-mouth, and taste test. Discusses signals of quality and consumer decisions. (MJP)

The resource guide is intended to aid disabled persons develop independence by presenting consumer information on all areas of the United States. A preface explains the need for consumer education by the disabled and the introduction describes the guide's purpose and format. Each subject is introduced with a 4-question self quiz and an explanation…

A unit to acquaint secondary school students with the basics of life insurance is presented. The document contains student materials and a teacher's guide. Objectives are to evaluate the four basic types of life insurance (term, whole life, limited payment life, and endowment), compare prices of policies, recognize the difference between…

This unit provides high school students with criteria for deciding to buy a new or used car and selecting a reputable dealer. It is divided into three sections. In the first section students analyze uses and identify car sizes, options, and appearances that are important. The second section describes advantages and disadvantages of new and used…

This is a collection of consumer skills items for state and local education agencies to draw upon in composing consumer skills instruments. It provides items to assess seventeen-year-olds' consumer skills. The booklet contains items classified under eight major topics: behavior, contracts, economics, energy, finances, mathematics, projection, and…

This guide is intended to assist school personnel by clarifying issues, provide directions in basic information, and stimulate practical considerations for the learner in the area of consumer education. Its objectives are to (1) assist school administrators in the implementation of consumer education, and (2) assist secondary teachers in planning…

This article presents an effective course supplement for Principles of Marketing classes. An experiential project involving online auctions is offered to instructors seeking to create a more participatory student environment and an interactive teaching style. A number of learning points are illustrated that allow instructors to use an auction…

This handbook for consumers begins with information on its use, content, and other sources of help. The handbook is then divided into two sections. Part I, How to Be a Smart Consumer, lists tips on getting the most for your money, handling your own complaint, and writing a complaint letter. It provides information on the following consumer issues:…

This paper provides information to support the implementation and management of independent living services for individuals with disabilities. The paper compiles the experiences of numerous people involved in programs providing services which support disabled individuals as active consumers of commercial rehabilitative aids and devices. It…

Direct and indirect contributions of nine Arkansas universities to the economic well-being of the state, as well as the expected rate of return from support of higher education, were assessed. In-state expenditures by the universities and local expenditures by university staff and students were measured. A major impact was the value of business…

Traces the changes in consumer habits for tea and coffee in Iran from the early 15th century (introduction of the beverages) to the late 19th century. Consumption often was tied to regional differentiation and social stratification. Shifting trade routes, especially those involving Russia and England also produced changes. (MJP)

The single but substantial economic dimension of Georgia State University's contribution to the Atlanta metropolitan area is examined in this research report. The purpose of the study was to identify successful estimating techniques developed by previous studies of the local spending impact of postsecondary educational institutions. Three direct…

The pamphlet offers unit-by-unit outlines for a high school course in consumer economics. The 20 objectives of the course stress ability to: assess the proper use of human and material resources, understand the consumer's role in the market system, distinguish the difference between needs and wants, recognize the efficacy of interacting with…

This instructional unit on shopping is one of six Adult Competency Education Learning Modules designed for use in a program of competency-based instruction for students with reading levels of 4.0-7.5. It is self-contained and designed for immediate classroom use. Each module is a complete instructional package, including Adult Performance Level…

This project is part of an ongoing study of the influence of schooling on observed household behavior. The study has previously determined that more educated individuals behave as if they are more proficient consumers, and that, in particular, more educated couples systematically select more efficient contraceptive techniques. The recent research…