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Abstract
The author of this article provides a framework for using readings outside of the textbook to increase engagement with topics in labor economics, to aid in the development of research skills, and prepare students to create a scholarly research proposal. The outside readings used in this course are academic journal articles. The students are assigned five articles to read, summarize, and discuss over the semester. Following a scaffolding approach, the repeated activity and feedback from the structured reflections and presentations will provide students a basis to generate a question they are interested in researching.
Notes
1 Principles of Microeconomics and Macroeconomics are offered at the College in the sophomore suite of courses. Both principles courses require a minimum of 12 credits to enroll and Business Statistics requires sophomore standing and Business Calculus. Given this, there is a possibility that students with an academic standing below junior level can enroll in Labor Economics, but it does not occur very often.
2 The global pandemic and travel restrictions are likely the reasons for such a pronounced drop in international students during fall 2020 (at 22%, it is down from 40% the previous semester). For fall 2020, the course was advertised as being taught fully whole or entirely in-person.
3 I have borrowed heavily from other professors who give similar assignments. Specifically, Martha Olney and Travis Roach. I appreciate their willingness to share their assignment details.
4 This was a great success this semester and I highly recommend it. This again exposes students to the research process and how “to do economics.”