Learning outcomes

  • Ability to apply economic reasoning to specific questions.
  • Ability to explain economic reasoning in simple yet rigorous terms.
  • Ability to read economic texts in English.
  • Ability to write in a clear and structured manner and deliver convincing oral presentations.
  • Ability to participate constructively and thoughtfully in controversial discussions.


Goals

The main objective of this seminar is to encourage students to apply economic reasoning to concrete issues.

The aim is to help them understand how economic analysis can contribute to answering societal questions.

Students will develop their ability to explain economic reasoning in simple but rigorous terms.

They will also strengthen their oral skills by learning how to give convincing presentations and how to defend their arguments in a discussion.

Finally, students will improve their passive knowledge of English by becoming familiar with English-language economic terminology.

Content

Part 1: Students work in pairs: one defends a proposition, the other opposes it. They prepare using academic resources and AI tools. They then discuss their arguments in front of the group and take part in an open discussion.

Part 2: Students read several articles (in English) on a given theme, then write a paper (in French). This paper should present the essential aspects of the topic concisely and include a critical discussion. Students must also provide feedback to their peers. Finally, they present their work in the form of a video.

Teaching methods

  • Written assignments with feedback from the instructor and a peer.
  • Oral presentations of assignments (video).
  • Pair discussions and open group discussions.


Assessment method

Assessment is based on the assignments submitted as well as on the quality of the oral discussions, the video capsule, and the peer feedback provided.

  • Part 1 (discussion): 50% of the final grade.
  • Part 2 (paper and video): 50% of the final grade.

Assessment criteria:

  • Rigor in the use of economic reasoning and in the critique of the literature.
  • Rigor in the use of sources.
  • Quality of writing.
  • Quality of oral discussion.
  • Quality of the content of the video.
  • Respect for deadlines.


 

Sources, references and any support material

According to the list given in the first lecture

 

Language of instruction

French