In class I will review the main topics in development economics and the major empirical tools to evaluate development programs and policies. I will also discuss how to write a good economics paper and will provide examples of good writing. Acceptable papers should make a worthwhile contribution to the development economics literature. The paper can be either theoretical or empirical, and can use data from either developing or development countries (as long as it has policy implications on developing countries). Most students will go on to submit the paper as their honors thesis.

My goal is to create a collaborative environment that helps students find a research topic, formulate economic hypotheses, test them rigorously and communicate the results orally and in writing. The class will provide a forum to present ideas and solicit suggestions from both the instructor and your peers.

Course Requirements:

Over the course of the term students will complete several writing assignments that are intended to help them to improve their writing skills. This course meets the upper level writing requirement (ULWR).

Intended Audience:

This course is for students interested in conducting original research on micro-economic issues in developing countries.