ECON10730 Data Analysis for Economists

Academic Year 2022/2023

In today’s world, data are everywhere. Businesses and governments have access to more data on their customers and citizens than ever before and there is high demand for people with the skills to analyse this information in a systematic manner. This module will introduce students to the basic tools used by economists when analysing data. Various types of data are introduced and students will learn how to use spreadsheets to do basic calculations, analyse economic policy issues, make graphs and calculate statistics. Issues relating to interpreting statistics and distinguishing causation from correlation will also be explored.

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Curricular information is subject to change

Learning Outcomes:

On completion of this module, students will understand how to collect the kinds of data used by economists and how to use spreadsheets to analyse these data. Students will also be aware of some of the major problems that can occur when analysing economic data and how to avoid these problems. Students will be in a position to take further modules in statistics and econometrics where they can deepen their knowledge of economic data analysis.

Student Effort Hours: 
Student Effort Type Hours
Lectures

20
Autonomous Student Learning

90
Total

110
Approaches to Teaching and Learning:
Teaching will be done in a computer lab. and we will intersperse hands-on data analysis with discussion of the methods being used. 
Requirements, Exclusions and Recommendations

Not applicable to this module.


Module Requisites and Incompatibles
Additional Information:
This module will be restricted to students in the DN510 programme, i.e. single subject majors.


 
Assessment Strategy  
Description Timing Open Book Exam Component Scale Must Pass Component % of Final Grade
Essay: An essay to be written individually using data. Coursework (End of Trimester) n/a Graded No

60
Group Project: Group work that will involve working with Excel worksheets and preparing a presentation. Throughout the Trimester n/a Graded No

40

Carry forward of passed components
Yes
 
Resit In Terminal Exam
Spring No
Please see Student Jargon Buster for more information about remediation types and timing. 
Feedback Strategy/Strategies

• Group/class feedback, post-assessment

How will my Feedback be Delivered?

I will place feedback on the assignment on Brightspace, including suggested solutions. I will give feedback on the student presentations in the lecture.