Edward Elgar Publishing Teaching Economics to Undergraduates: Alternatives to Chalk and Talk

This book demonstrates alternatives to the lecture and chalkboard approach that dominates the teaching of economics, providing a range of innovative teaching techniques and examples aimed at engaging undergraduates in the learning of economics.The editors provide a brief history of the teaching of economics in higher education, as well as a review of current undergraduate teaching practices. Some of the field's leading educators then demonstrate alternative practices in three main sections: 'Active and Cooperative Learning', 'Writing, the Internet, and Discovery Through Sampling', and 'Examples from the World Around Us'. The topics in the twelve chapters of the book have been carefully selected based on their high potential for adoption by other instructors. Detailed, 'hands-on' examples are included within each chapter, illustrating how suggested approaches can be used in different courses and classroom situations at the undergraduate level. Also included are lists of 'Dos' and 'Dont's' to guide instructors through the successful implementation of activities.This book will be of great practical value to teachers of economics as well as administrators responsible for undergraduate instruction. Review 'Teaching Economics to Undergraduates deserves a prominent spot on the bookshelves of all economists who are interested in improving the effectiveness of their teaching, especially those with important undergraduate teaching responsibilities. Following an introductory essay, 11 chapters provide very specific ideas of new ways to structure one's teaching. Each chapter also contains a useful list of 'dos and don'ts' that add to their effectiveness.' About the Author Edited by William E. Becker, Professor of Economics, Indiana University, Bloomington, US, Adjunct Professor, School of Commerce, University of South Australia and Editor, Journal of Economic Education and Editor, Economic Research Network Educator and the late Michael Watts, formerly Professor of Economics and Director, Center for Economic Education, Purdue University, US and Associate Editor, Journal of Economic Education With a Foreword by the late William J. Baumol