APME21-Policy Analysis

Module Provider: APD
Number of credits: 10 [5 ECTS credits]
Level:7
Terms in which taught: Autumn term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites: Pre-requisites; It is recommendable to have some background on economics. Basic understanding of microeconomics. This is an optional module for the suite of MSc programmes offered in Applied Economics. It is available to students on other MSc/MA programmes who have some background in microeconomic theory.
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2019/0

Email: f.j.areal@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

This is an applied welfare economics module with a focus on an agricultural policy and international trade. The module provides students with key skills in policy analysis such as the understanding and use of graphical and mathematical analysis of policies, basic input-output models and cost-benefit analysis. The general rationale of the module is to provide an understanding of the needs for policy interventions with respect to agricultural and environmental and issues: optimal scale, market failure and distributive justice. Problems related to policies implementation are also addressed. Specific examples related to the contexts of agricultural prices, policies and trade, on one hand, and environmental problems on the other, provide the basic skills that can be applied to real life policy issues.

Aims:

This module will provide students with the basic tools necessary to apply economic theory to the analysis of agricultural, trade and environmental policies.

Assessable learning outcomes:

1. To discuss and analyse the role and limits of the market system

2. To compare and contrast different policy tools

3. To carry out simple policy analysis using cost-benefit analysis and/or input-output analysis

Additional outcomes:

Outline content:

The module consists on 6 lectures and 3 PC practical sessions covering welfare analysis of agricultural, environmental and trade policies. Effects of policies on the whole economy and on its sectors will be also covered using both Input-Output Analysis and Cost-Benefit Analysis. 

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

Teaching will be delivered through a series of 2-hour lectures, which will include also opportunities for students to work in group and discuss specific issues.

Material from different textbooks and various articles will be used during this module. However, as a reference the following are indicated:

o Bellinger. The Economic Analysis of Public Policy. Routledge.

o Dunn. Public Policy Analysis: An integrated approach. Routledge

o Weimer, D and Vining, A. Policy Analysis. Pearson

Summative assessment- Examinations:

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

Formative assessment methods:

Formative assessment will be conducted during some of the lectures through simple MCQs

Penalties for late submission:
Penalties for late submission on this module are in accordance with the University policy. Please refer to page 5 of the Postgraduate Guide to Assessment for further information: http://www.reading.ac.uk/internal/exams/student/exa-guidePG.aspx

Assessment requirements for a pass:
A mark of 50% overall.

Reassessment arrangements:

By new assignment.

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):
1) Required text books:
2) Specialist equipment or materials:
3) Specialist clothing, footwear or headgear:
4) Printing and binding:
5) Computers and devices with a particular specification:
6) Travel, accommodation and subsistence:

Last updated: 10 April 2019