http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/ en tutor2u.net Copyright 2012 2012-02-11T19:04:45+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/economax-latest-edition-now-available http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/economax-latest-edition-now-available#When:12:27:31Z The latest edition of econoMAX, our digital magazine for A Level Economics students and teachers, is now available to subscribers on the econoMAX website.  Details of the latest articles below. School / college subscriptions to econoMAX remain at just £50 per year (for the 7th year running!) - your subscription allows whole-school access and distribution of econoMAX articles, including the entire archive dating back to 2004. You can order your subscription to econoMAX here. Teaching of Economics, 2012-02-09T12:27:31+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/recommended-reading-for-economics-february-2012 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/recommended-reading-for-economics-february-2012#When:22:53:03Z Here is my regularly revised and updated selection of thirty books designed to enhance and enrich your understanding and enjoyment of Economics perhaps as part of an application process for university. I try to ensure that no author appears more than once; some books are due for publication later this spring and summer. Inevitably I have had to leave out many very good books but I stick to my thirty limit! I hope that you enjoy some of them! Teaching of Economics, UCAS and Oxbridge Advice, 2012-02-06T22:53:03+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/teaching-vacancy-economics-part-time-at-john-lyon-school-harrow http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/teaching-vacancy-economics-part-time-at-john-lyon-school-harrow#When:20:48:36Z Many thanks to Stuart Foster for pointing out this nice part-time opportunity for a tutor2u economics teacher to join the thriving Economics department at John Lyon School. Need to move quickly on this one folks! Teaching of Economics, Teaching Opportunities, 2012-02-05T20:48:36+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/teaching-vacancy-hod-economics-and-business-studies-city-of-london-freemens http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/teaching-vacancy-hod-economics-and-business-studies-city-of-london-freemens#When:20:16:27Z Many thanks to Penny Brooks for letting us have news of this terrific HOD role for Economics/Business Studies in the beautiful Surrey countryside… Teaching of Economics, Teaching Opportunities, 2012-02-05T20:16:27+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/economics-and-business-news-quiz-6-february http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/economics-and-business-news-quiz-6-february#When:19:37:40Z Here is our weekly ten question quiz on economics and business in the news powered by Zondle. See who can get the highest score on the Space Destroyer game. Just register for free to try the quiz Economics in News Quiz, Teaching of Economics, 2012-02-05T19:37:40+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/daniel-kahneman-on-decision-making http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/daniel-kahneman-on-decision-making#When:18:49:37Z Here is a quick link to a guest blog on the Economist website provided by Daniel Kahneman - a handy overview of some of his key insights concerning psychological explanations for departures from rationality. Follow this link Behavioural Economics, Teaching of Economics, 2012-02-05T18:49:37+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-3-micro-video-resources-on-carbon-taxation http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-3-micro-video-resources-on-carbon-taxation#When:08:49:45Z The crucial issue of how best to tackle climate change and make significant progress towards a low-carbon economy is one that gives students tremendous opportunities to hone their analysis and evaluation skills. A few weeks ago the Australian government was successful in getting through the Senate proposals for a new carbon tax and in this blog we link to some excellent video reports on the background to this decision. AS and A2 Specifications, AQA Economics Unit 3, A2 Micro, Cost Benefit Analysis, Environmental Economics, Government Intervention, Indirect Taxes, Market Failure, Externalities, Information Failure, Market Equilibrium and Price, Price Mechanism in Action, Teaching of Economics, 2012-02-05T08:49:45+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-1-micro-winning-the-war-on-deforestation http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-1-micro-winning-the-war-on-deforestation#When:08:18:52Z Justin Rowlatt from the BBC has been investigating some of the remarkable progress being made in controlling deforestation in Brazil. The battle focuses on an area known as the “arc of destruction” and the video reports here show the impact of a government making a clear commitment to tackling the issue and backing it up with force and with incentives. AS and A2 Specifications, AQA Economics Unit 1, AQA Economics Unit 3, EdExcel Economics Unit 1, A2 Micro, AS Micro, Agriculture, Emerging Economies, Development Economics, Brazil Economy, Cost Benefit Analysis, Environmental Economics, Global Economy, Government Intervention, Regulation, Teaching of Economics, 2012-02-05T08:18:52+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-3-micro-richard-wilkinson-on-inequality-and-economic-harm http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-3-micro-richard-wilkinson-on-inequality-and-economic-harm#When:08:05:36Z I have been using this talk given at TED 2011 by Richard Wilkinson when teaching the topic of poverty and inequality and the risks that a growing chasm between low and high income groups can have for society and economic performance. Students and teachers familiar with the work of Pickett and Wilkinson and their recent book “The Spirit Level” will know well the approach that these authors take. They use published data on inequality and link to wide differences in a range of economic and social outcomes. Their work has been criticised by many on the right, not least because their argument is strong and clear - namely that we need to reduce inequality to tackle some of society’s deepest and most corrosive problems. AS and A2 Specifications, AQA Economics Unit 3, EdExcel Economics Unit 2, A2 Micro, AS Macro, Poverty and Inequality, Standard of Living, Teaching of Economics, 2012-02-05T08:05:36+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/teaching-vacancy-hod-economics-business-studies-at-cheltenham-college http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/teaching-vacancy-hod-economics-business-studies-at-cheltenham-college#When:11:27:32Z Many thanks to tutor2u’s Amy Chapman for letting us have first news of this teaching opportunity in the lovely spa town of Cheltenham. Teaching of Economics, Teaching Opportunities, 2012-02-03T11:27:32+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/teaching-vacancy-principal-teacher-of-business-education-george-heriots-sch http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/teaching-vacancy-principal-teacher-of-business-education-george-heriots-sch#When:11:23:13Z A wonderful opportunity to teach economics and business at George Heriot’s School in Edinburgh here… Teaching of Economics, Teaching Opportunities, 2012-02-03T11:23:13+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/richard-sennett-on-cooperation http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/richard-sennett-on-cooperation#When:18:05:26Z How many strangers have you met today? Did you meet your 5-a-day stranger target? In an orchestra or dance-troup made up of a team of egos, how do they eventually perform to a high standard night after night? Here are some notes from a talk given at the RSA tonight by the renowned sociologist Richard Sennett on complex cooperation. I took many ideas from this in terms of considering teaching techniques and the use of language in the classroom. Richard Sennett was talking about some of the themes in his new book “Together: The Rituals, Pleasures, and Politics of Cooperation.” Teaching of Economics, 2012-02-02T18:05:26+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-2-macrovideo-resources-on-human-development-data http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-2-macrovideo-resources-on-human-development-data#When:22:10:37Z Here is a short collection of short video resources on measuring human development with specific reference to the annual human development report and to progress in improving welfare in countries such as Kenya and Brazil AS and A2 Specifications, AQA Economics Unit 2, EdExcel Economics Unit 2, AS Macro, Emerging Economies, Development Economics, Brazil Economy, Economic Growth, Poverty and Inequality, Standard of Living, Teaching of Economics, 2012-01-31T22:10:37+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/teaching-vacancy-economics-business-at-canford-school http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/teaching-vacancy-economics-business-at-canford-school#When:08:43:20Z Many thanks to Stephen Grant for letting us have details of an opportunity to teach in a thriving Economics & Business department in a quite simply stunning part of the country - Canford School.  Applications need to be in by 1 February 2012, so move quickly! Teaching of Economics, Teaching Opportunities, 2012-01-30T08:43:20+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/teaching-vacancy-economics-at-salesian-college http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/teaching-vacancy-economics-at-salesian-college#When:11:25:30Z Many thanks to David Good for alerting us to this Economics teaching vacancy with our friends in the department at Salesian College. Teaching of Economics, Teaching Opportunities, 2012-01-29T11:25:30+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/the-impact-of-interest-rates http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/the-impact-of-interest-rates#When:06:31:19Z The US economy may have grown at nearly 3% in the last quarter of 2011, but the Federal Reserve announced last week that they do not expect to raise interest rates until the end of 2014. It has cut its growth forecast for 2012 from 2.5-2.9%, to 2-2.7%, and says that the economy faced “significant downside risks” and that it “expects to maintain a highly accommodative stance for monetary policy” - which I take to mean expansionary. This article about that interest rate decision is useful for economics teachers and students as it highlights a couple of results of that announcement; firstly that the dollar’s exchange rate immediately lost value as the interest rate made the US a less attractive place to keep cash, and secondly that government benefited as the cost of its borrowing in markets for 10 years fell from 2.06% to 1.94%, as traders priced in the lower medium-term interest rate expectations. A2 Macro, AS Macro, Macroeconomic Policies, Monetary Policy, OECD Economies, US Economy, Teaching of Economics, 2012-01-29T06:31:19+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/economics-and-business-news-quiz-29-january http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/economics-and-business-news-quiz-29-january#When:20:24:50Z Here is a ten question quiz covering the economics and business news this week - have a go and see who can get the biggest distance using the javelin challenge. To play the full quiz just register for free on the Zondle site! Good luck Economics in News Quiz, Teaching of Economics, Digital Learning, 2012-01-28T20:24:50+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/micro-music-video-featuring-the-little-mermaid http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/micro-music-video-featuring-the-little-mermaid#When:21:44:06Z We like this - in fact we like this a lot - virtually the whole of the micro course in three glorious minutes - enjoy Microeconomics Music Video- Econ World (featuring the Little Mermaid) Market Equilibrium and Price, Teaching of Economics, 2012-01-27T21:44:06+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/economics-teaching-diane-coyle-on-economic-crises http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/economics-teaching-diane-coyle-on-economic-crises#When:20:32:19Z Diane Coyle gave a superb talk on the state of the economics profession and made a powerful case for curriculum reform in a talk in Germany earlier on this week. The transcript of the talk can be found here and this link takes you to the audio file. Excellent CPD for all of us in the school and college economics teaching community. It ends on a very positive note, not least the surge in student numbers and enthusiasm for our fantastic subject! Teaching of Economics, 2012-01-27T20:32:19+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-4-macro-focus-on-india-supply-side-issues http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-4-macro-focus-on-india-supply-side-issues#When:19:15:32Z The rapid growth of the India economy has been helped by her economy enjoying a number of supply-side advantages. That said there remain structural supply-side weaknesses that will limit her continued competitiveness and development. This blog looks at the plusses and the minuses. AS and A2 Specifications, AQA Economics Unit 2, AQA Economics Unit 4, EdExcel Economics Unit 2, EdExcel Economics Unit 4, OCR A2 Economics Unit F585, A2 Macro, AS Macro, Emerging Economies, Development Economics, Indian economy, Cycles and Shocks, Aggregate Supply, Economic Growth, Global Economy, Health Economics, Macroeconomic Policies, Supply-side policies, Teaching of Economics, 2012-01-25T19:15:32+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/res-annual-essay-competition-for-students-2012 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/res-annual-essay-competition-for-students-2012#When:08:54:00Z The 2012 Royal Economic Society Essay Competition for students has been launched. Details below… RES Essay Competition 2012, A2 Macro, A2 Micro, AS Macro, AS Micro, Teaching of Economics, 2012-01-25T08:54:00+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-1-micro-can-the-uk-computer-games-industry-grow http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-1-micro-can-the-uk-computer-games-industry-grow#When:22:17:37Z Britain is one of the world’s biggest exporters of creative products - from live TV shows and music to books, arts, architecture and films the economy has built up an enviable global reputation for excellence and a growing trade surplus to aid our balance of payments. Computer games falls squarely into this category but, according to TIGA - the trade association representing the UK’s games industry - unless there is renewed government support, the future of this sector is at risk. TIGA claims that the British games industry is suffering a significant ‘brain drain’ as talented programmers and artists leave the country to work abroad. AS and A2 Specifications, AQA Economics Unit 1, EdExcel Economics Unit 1, A2 Micro, AS Micro, Business Economics, Economic Growth, Economics of Technology, GCSE Economics, Government Intervention, Subsidies, Macroeconomic Policies, Supply-side policies, Market Failure, Factor Immobility, Market Equilibrium and Price, Nature of Demand, Nature of Supply, Teaching of Economics, UK Economy, Regional Economics, Unemployment, 2012-01-24T22:17:37+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/teaching-vacancy-economics-at-st-olaves-orpington http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/teaching-vacancy-economics-at-st-olaves-orpington#When:22:40:42Z Five superb teaching opportunities in one night here on the Economics blog!  Many thanks to John Greenwood for giving tutor2u first details of this vacancy at St Olave’s. Teaching of Economics, Teaching Opportunities, 2012-01-23T22:40:42+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/teaching-vacancy-economics-at-tiffin-school-pt http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/teaching-vacancy-economics-at-tiffin-school-pt#When:22:21:43Z A part-time vacancy here at a school with a terrific reputation for Economics. Many thanks to tutor2u blogger Rob Earl for letting us have the details. Teaching of Economics, Teaching Opportunities, 2012-01-23T22:21:43+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/teaching-vacancy-hod-economics-business-at-culford-school http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/teaching-vacancy-hod-economics-business-at-culford-school#When:22:16:31Z A HOD vacancy this time - many thanks to our colleagues at Culford School for letting us have first details of this opportunity: Teaching of Economics, Teaching Opportunities, 2012-01-23T22:16:31+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/teaching-vacancy-economics-at-malvern-college http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/teaching-vacancy-economics-at-malvern-college#When:22:12:51Z Another superb vacancy here - ideal for talented economics teachers who support T2U! Teaching of Economics, Teaching Opportunities, 2012-01-23T22:12:51+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/teaching-vacancy-economics-at-kings-college-school-wimbledon http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/teaching-vacancy-economics-at-kings-college-school-wimbledon#When:22:07:22Z These superb economics teaching opportunities keep on coming and here is another cracker - Kings College School in Wimbledon.  Don’t for get to mention that you heard about it here on T2U! Teaching of Economics, Teaching Opportunities, 2012-01-23T22:07:22+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-3-micro-3d-printing-and-a-manufacturing-revolution http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-3-micro-3d-printing-and-a-manufacturing-revolution#When:16:56:38Z Additive manufacturing or 3D printing is an emerging technology that takes product design data which provides a geometric representation of a product such as a pen and that data is then sent over to a machine that allows products to be manufactured ‘on the spot’ typically using additive materials in liquid or powder format. This TED talk from Lisa Harouni (co-founder of Digital Forming) looks at examples of intricately designed products made using this new and increasingly affordable manufacturing technology. 3D machines can build structures, build replacement parts and parts within parts - the detailed resolution possible is incredible. AS and A2 Specifications, AQA Economics Unit 3, EdExcel Economics Unit 3, A2 Micro, AS Micro, Business Economics, Economies of Scale, Management Issues, Cycles and Shocks, Aggregate Supply, Economic Growth, Economics of Technology, Environmental Economics, Manufacturing Industry, Market Equilibrium and Price, Nature of Supply, Teaching of Economics, 2012-01-23T16:56:38+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/video-resources-on-rising-inequality http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/video-resources-on-rising-inequality#When:10:24:14Z In this blog entry we will be bringing together some short video resources that might be useful when teaching and studying the economics of inequality. Please do add some more resources using the comment box at the bottom and we can add them to the listing. AS and A2 Specifications, AQA Economics Unit 1, AQA Economics Unit 3, EdExcel Economics Unit 1, EdExcel Economics Unit 2, A2 Micro, AS Micro, Government Intervention, Market Failure, Poverty and Inequality, Standard of Living, Teaching of Economics, UK Economy, Regional Economics, 2012-01-23T10:24:14+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-1-micro-illegal-logging-and-the-human-cost http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-1-micro-illegal-logging-and-the-human-cost#When:07:43:53Z This news report looks at the human cost of an example of the tragedy of the commons - illegal logging in the south Philippines which contributed to tens of deaths from the effects of flash flooding. Ecosystems and economic prospects are damaged at the same time because of failures in environmental management. AS and A2 Specifications, AQA Economics Unit 1, EdExcel Economics Unit 1, AS Micro, Agriculture, Emerging Economies, Development Economics, Environmental Economics, Market Failure, Externalities, Information Failure, Public Goods, Teaching of Economics, 2012-01-23T07:43:53+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-4-macro-money-debt-and-the-new-world-order http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-4-macro-money-debt-and-the-new-world-order#When:18:40:23Z “All money these days is really a form of debt from somewhere else. We know now in 2012 that our debts cannot be repaid in full.” Philip Coggan from the Economist was on fine form at the LSE last week when he spoke to a packed audience in the new academic building on the subject of his latest book. When trust in the monetary system breaks down we are in a very difficult place and, in a wonderfully broad historical sweep Philip Coggan offered some revealing insights into what a reformed global monetary system might look like in the years ahead. AS and A2 Specifications, AQA Economics Unit 4, EdExcel Economics Unit 4, OCR A2 Economics Unit F585, A2 Macro, Emerging Economies, Cycles and Shocks, European Economy, The Euro, Financial Markets, Global Economy, Macroeconomic Policies, Monetary Policy, OECD Economies, Teaching of Economics, 2012-01-22T18:40:23+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/france-and-flexible-employment http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/france-and-flexible-employment#When:10:03:05Z This article could be useful as an illustration of the EU context in relation to employment in general, and flexible employment in particular. Attracting inward FDI is arguably a significant benefit of UK membership of the EU, and one of the advantages which the UK can offer compared to, say, France is relatively flexible employment laws. AS and A2 Specifications, AQA Economics Unit 2, AQA Economics Unit 4, EdExcel Economics Unit 2, EdExcel Economics Unit 4, A2 Macro, Business Economics, Competitive Markets, European Economy, Labour Market, Macroeconomic Policies, Supply-side policies, OECD Economies, French Economy, Teaching of Economics, 2012-01-22T10:03:05+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-4-macro-russia-joins-the-wto http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-4-macro-russia-joins-the-wto#When:09:50:52Z I am using Russia’s entry to the World Trade Organisation in my teaching on international trade and development this term. It appear to be a significant moment for the global economy. Russia is the last member of the Group of 20 major economies to join, after China gained membership in 2001. Progress towards membership has been delayed by numerous geo-political issues not least the disputes with neighbouring Georgia. Joining the WTO involves making a commitment to the rules of the international trade system - for Russia as with other new members, this will mean reduced import tariffs, the staged elimination of industrial domestic and export subsidies, and better greater access to foreign companies. Russia will also have to improve adherence to international accounting standards. * Russia’s average bound tariff will be 7.3 percent for manufactured products (compared with 9.5 percent currently) * Farm tariffs will be 10.8 percent (compared with 13.2 percent currently) * Russia commits to zero export subsidies on agricultural products - to end by 2017 * Russia will privatise 100 pct of United Grain Company by 2012 * Russia will introduce duty-free and quota-free provisions for the least developed countries * Russia will eliminate preferential tariffs for carmakers making large investments in Russian-based production by July 1, 2018 * Russia plans to introduce International Accounting Standards How would you use a supply and demand diagram to show the impact of a fall in an import tariff? Russian exports as a share of her GDP has actually been on a declining trend in recent years. Will movements towards trade and foreign investment liberalisation reverse this through trade creation and FDI effects? How can a stronger commitment to becoming an open economy supprot higher living standards over time? What are the risks for Russia of WTO accession? AS and A2 Specifications, AQA Economics Unit 4, EdExcel Economics Unit 4, OCR A2 Economics Unit F585, A2 Macro, AS Macro, Emerging Economies, Development Economics, Russia Economy, Cycles and Shocks, Economic Growth, European Economy, Global Economy, International Trade, Macroeconomic Policies, Trade Policies, Oil and Gas, OECD Economies, Standard of Living, Teaching of Economics, 2012-01-22T09:50:52+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-2-macro-living-below-the-breadline http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-2-macro-living-below-the-breadline#When:00:12:49Z This article on the appalling depth of workless households in Liverpool is a reminder of the multiple aspects of relative poverty and economic/social exclusion. The causes of unemployment are complex - many are structural - but it is hard to draw much if any optimism from reading this article. By some estimates over one third of households in Liverpool have no one in work and second and third generation unemployment is not uncommon. This is a must article for students to read if they want a better awareness of the human cost of non-employment. Read: Below the breadline on Liverpool’s workless estates AS and A2 Specifications, AQA Economics Unit 2, EdExcel Economics Unit 2, AS Macro, Labour Market, Macroeconomic Policies, Supply-side policies, Market Failure, Factor Immobility, Poverty and Inequality, Teaching of Economics, UK Economy, Regional Economics, Unemployment, 2012-01-20T00:12:49+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/teaching-vacancy-hod-economics-at-harrow-school http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/teaching-vacancy-hod-economics-at-harrow-school#When:10:27:23Z Many thanks to our colleagues at Harrow School for alerting us to yet another top opportunity for tutor2u Economics teachers!  Details below.  Don’t forget to mention that you saw this on T2U! Teaching of Economics, Teaching Opportunities, 2012-01-19T10:27:23+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/teaching-vacancy-hod-economics-business-at-bristol-gs http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/teaching-vacancy-hod-economics-business-at-bristol-gs#When:10:00:52Z What an amazing week for top job opportunities on tutor2u for economics & business teachers. Don’t think we’ve ever had so many colleagues contacting us with superb teaching vacancies.  Why advertise in TES when you can reach over 13,000 Economics & Business teachers direct?  Here is the latest - a real belter - HOD of Econ & Business at Bristol Grammar School. Teaching of Economics, Teaching Opportunities, 2012-01-19T10:00:52+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/teaching-vacancy-economics-business-studies-at-bloxham-school http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/teaching-vacancy-economics-business-studies-at-bloxham-school#When:07:19:19Z Details below of an economics & business teaching vacancy which is sure to interest many colleagues…. Teaching of Economics, Teaching Opportunities, 2012-01-19T07:19:19+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-3-micro-the-economics-of-solar-subsidies http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-3-micro-the-economics-of-solar-subsidies#When:22:15:53Z This blog provides a link to a new prezi presentation on the economics of solar subsidies - I have been using it as part of my teaching on aspects of environmental economics for Unit 3 AQA but it might also be useful for unit 1 market failure. I have kept theoretical diagrams out of it and plan to build up relevant analytical concepts such as economies of scale, consumer subsidies, economic and social welfare, government failure et al on a normal whiteboard rather than embed them into the Prezi. I hope it is useful. Follow the tags at the bottom of the blog entry for more recent articles on solar subsidies such as feed-in-tariffs and other environmental economic resources. AS and A2 Specifications, AQA Economics Unit 1, AQA Economics Unit 3, EdExcel Economics Unit 1, A2 Micro, AS Micro, Cost Benefit Analysis, Environmental Economics, European Economy, Government Intervention, Subsidies, Market Failure, Merit & De-Merit Goods, Market Equilibrium and Price, Nature of Demand, Nature of Supply, Price Mechanism in Action, Teaching of Economics, UK Economy, 2012-01-18T22:15:53+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-1-micro-nano-technology-and-energy-efficiency http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-1-micro-nano-technology-and-energy-efficiency#When:20:51:09Z Today’s research in the labs can be the harbinger of terrific innovations that change the landscape of consumer product markets in the years ahead. The iPod Nano is a brand but the research behind nano-technology itself might bring about eye-watering improvements in the energy efficiency of devices that are part and parcel of our daily lives. This brief news report from Al Jazeerah looks at innovation in nano technologies and what might be around the corner. Researchers at IBM have created the world’s smallest magnetic digital-storage device, using just 12 atoms to hold a single data bit of information. AS and A2 Specifications, AQA Economics Unit 1, EdExcel Economics Unit 1, AS Micro, Business Economics, Economic Growth, Economics of Technology, Market Equilibrium and Price, Nature of Supply, Teaching of Economics, 2012-01-17T20:51:09+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/teaching-vacancy-economics-politics-at-dulwich-college http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/teaching-vacancy-economics-politics-at-dulwich-college#When:10:09:05Z Another fantastic teaching opportunity here to join the team at Dulwich College.  Details below: Teaching of Economics, Teaching Opportunities, 2012-01-17T10:09:05+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit1-micro-can-a-minimum-wage-create-jobs http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit1-micro-can-a-minimum-wage-create-jobs#When:00:02:34Z Tim Harford has a piece in his regular column in the Financial Times which discusses some of the issues surrounding the minimum wage and whether a legal pay floor can actually create jobs. Here is the link AS and A2 Specifications, AQA Economics Unit 1, EdExcel Economics Unit 1, AS Micro, Government Intervention, Minimum Prices, Labour Market, Market Equilibrium and Price, Price Mechanism in Action, Teaching of Economics, Unemployment, 2012-01-17T00:02:34+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/cpd-using-twitter-a-session-at-tapton http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/cpd-using-twitter-a-session-at-tapton#When:17:06:23Z What a superb idea from Julia Wilkins at Tapton School near Sheffield to organise a CPD session for her colleagues on some of the ways in which Twitter can be used as a support for continuing professional development. She tweeted earlier in the day for people to join in and at the appointed hour (4.30pm) a stream of tweets became a torrent as colleagues from the twitterverse contributed ideas, views, links and resources. There were plenty of economics and business teachers providing an input but many from other subjects too and I discovered some great links to free programs that aggregate tweets and to some recent research on how can social media support teacher professional development. Here is a link to follow. If any other colleague is planning on running such a session just flag it up using our regular hashtag #ecbusteach and I am sure you will have a great crew on hand to offer warm support and ideas.  For the latest ecbusteach tweets click here   Teaching of Economics, 2012-01-16T17:06:23+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/economics-revision-workshops-in-2011-12 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/economics-revision-workshops-in-2011-12#When:07:35:24Z The dates for our popular Unit 2 & Unit 4 Economics revision workshops in Spring 2012 are now confirmed: Provisional bookings for these revision workshops can now be made using the following form: The dates and locations are shown below: A2 Macro, A2 Micro, AS Macro, AS Micro, Teaching of Economics, 2012-01-16T07:35:24+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-2-macro-look-upwards-to-find-the-next-downturn http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-2-macro-look-upwards-to-find-the-next-downturn#When:03:34:05Z Correlation does not necessarily imply causation but analysts at Barclays Capital are worried that a surge in skyscraper construction in China and India might be a forward indicator of another burst of financial and economic distress. This report in the Independent covers their findings: “Clusters of building activity usually coincide with periods of easy credit, excessive optimism and rising land prices, which often occur before market corrections.” * India is scheduled to complete 14 new skyscrapers taller than 240 meters (787 feet) over the next five years from the current two * China will increase the number of skyscrapers to 141, from the current 75, by 2017 * London’s Shard is expected to be completed in 2012 – at 1,017ft, it will be the tallest building in Western Europe News video from the BBC: Skyscrapers ‘linked with impending financial crashes’ Guardian news video: Huaxi: the village that towers above China   AS and A2 Specifications, AQA Economics Unit 2, EdExcel Economics Unit 2, AS Macro, Emerging Economies, Business Economics, Economies of Scale, Cycles and Shocks, Aggregate Demand, Capital Investment, Economic Growth, Global Economy, Teaching of Economics, 2012-01-16T03:34:05+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/economics-at-the-movies-foods-that-make-billions-cereals http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/economics-at-the-movies-foods-that-make-billions-cereals#When:19:37:56Z Here is a link to a you tube video from the BBC looking at the modern food business and the huge profits to be made from the breakfast cereal industry. Part of the series The Foods that Make Billions (cereals, bottled water and yoghurt) The Foods That Make Billions - Cereals Yoghurt A2 Micro, AS Micro, Business Economics, Economies of Scale, Commodities Markets, Teaching of Economics, Economics at the Movies, 2012-01-15T19:37:56+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-4-macro-france-loses-her-aaa-credit-rating http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-4-macro-france-loses-her-aaa-credit-rating#When:14:36:24Z It is perhaps a moment of more political than economic significance, but on Friday 13th January 2012 Standard and Poors, a leading credit rating agency announced that France was losing her triple A (AAA) credit rating for sovereign debt. It was part of a larger downgrading of government bonds among a sizeable chunk of Euro Zone countries, the argument being that plans to achieve deficit reduction lacked credibility. France was downgraded, S&P also lowered the long-term ratings on Austria, Malta, Slovakia, and Slovenia, by one notch. The rating levels for Cyprus, Italy, Portugal and Spain were dropped two notches. Here is a brief Channel 4 report on the news and some other links to the story. Only four Euro Zone countries now have an AAA rating. Do you know who they are? AS and A2 Specifications, AQA Economics Unit 4, EdExcel Economics Unit 4, A2 Macro, European Economy, The Euro, Global Economy, Credit Crunch, Teaching of Economics, UK Economy, 2012-01-15T14:36:24+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-2-macro-frontier-markets-the-new-brics http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-2-macro-frontier-markets-the-new-brics#When:11:30:20Z Emma Wall has a piece in the Telegraph today about Frontier Markets - 25 countries that have stock markets but because of their size, inexperience or political instability do not yet qualify for “emerging market” status. These are higher risk markets for investors but target countries that are gradually becoming more open to trade and investment and which have high grown potential. AS and A2 Specifications, AQA Economics Unit 2, EdExcel Economics Unit 2, Emerging Economies, Teaching of Economics, 2012-01-15T11:30:20+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-4-macro-piracy-and-econ-development-in-somalia http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-4-macro-piracy-and-econ-development-in-somalia#When:10:23:28Z A new year hat tip to Richard Coulthard from Handsworth Grammar School in Birmingham for spotting this BBC news article on the economic impact of piracy in Somalia. Richard comments that this is just what economic theory would predict after large increases in the money supply but from a quirky angle. Read: Somali piracy ‘boosts Puntland economy’ To access the Chatham House report from this which this news report is drawn, please click here AS and A2 Specifications, AQA Economics Unit 4, EdExcel Economics Unit 4, A2 Macro, AS Macro, Emerging Economies, African Economy, Development Economics, Teaching of Economics, 2012-01-15T10:23:28+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/beyond-the-bike-the-importance-of-remittances http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/beyond-the-bike-the-importance-of-remittances#When:09:58:22Z Joseph is 29 years old and makes a living selling vehicle parts in the dusty trucker town of Igawu in Southern Tanzania. When he approached me during my breakfast and flashed 2 fresh $100 bills, I was naturally interested to know where they came from. I offered him a ride north to find out… Beyond the Bike - the Economic Cycle, AS and A2 Specifications, AQA Economics Unit 4, EdExcel Economics Unit 4, A2 Macro, AS Macro, Balance of Payments, Emerging Economies, African Economy, Development Economics, Global Economy, Standard of Living, Teaching of Economics, 2012-01-15T09:58:22+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-4-macro-time-to-re-boot-the-british-economy http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-4-macro-time-to-re-boot-the-british-economy#When:21:52:49Z This special blog in the Guardian from Professor Danny Quah of the London School of Economics is superb for Unit 4 students taking their papers in June 2012. in “The UK and the eurozone in the shifting global economy” Professor Quah focuses on many of the underlying difficulties in the UK economy. Digging deeper inside the trade data he finds that, focusing on the UK’s 50 largest trading partners in 2009: 56% of our exports go to the 10 slowest-growing economies in that group. We are missing many opportunities to fully embrace trade and investment with faster-growth countries notably in Africa and Asia. A note for your diaries if you are within reach of London on Monday 23rd January. Martin Wolf from the FT is speaking on The State of the Global Economy in 2012 - an event not to be missed for fans of his writing and insight. He is speaking along with Jean Michel Severino, nspector general at the French Ministry of Finance. Here are the details. AS and A2 Specifications, AQA Economics Unit 4, EdExcel Economics Unit 4, A2 Macro, Teaching of Economics, UK Economy, 2012-01-14T21:52:49+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/economics-at-the-movies-the-joy-of-stats http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/economics-at-the-movies-the-joy-of-stats#When:19:31:02Z In this blog we provide links to official You Tube clips from the Joy of Stats programme made available by the Open University. Click below to view the selection Teaching of Economics, Economics at the Movies, 2012-01-14T19:31:02+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/teaching-vacancy-economics-at-oundle-school http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/teaching-vacancy-economics-at-oundle-school#When:08:51:38Z What a week of top job vacancies on the Economics blog and here is another cracker!  An excellent opportunity to join an expanding team at Oundle School, with Mo Tanweer (Head of Department and tutor2u presenter/blogger) and Andrew Ireson (tutor2u presenter). Details below. Teaching of Economics, Teaching Opportunities, 2012-01-13T08:51:38+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/essential-economics-2012-the-economics-booster-cpd-course http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/essential-economics-2012-the-economics-booster-cpd-course#When:08:40:12Z Back by popular demand! Wednesday 20 June 2012 - Central London Economics is a booming subject at A Level, with student numbers having grown by over 25% in the last few years.  Many teaching colleagues are either new to the subject or have been asked to brush up their Economics in order to support the teaching of this fantastic subject. We designed this new course to provide a resource boost for teachers who are new to teaching economics or are a non-specialist in the subject and it was a huge success when it ran for the first time in October 2011. So we’re running it again!  A summer date for the next date - 20 June 2012. Teaching of Economics, 2012-01-13T08:40:12+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/newsnight-on-rebalancing-the-uk-economy http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/newsnight-on-rebalancing-the-uk-economy#When:05:11:19Z Last night’s edition of Newsnight should be required viewing for all AS and A level economists - and it is a huge shame that it is only available on i-player for another 7 days. Introduced on the shock news that even Tesco is vulnerable to the downturn, it included reports from Andrew Verity looking at whether the British economy will ever wean itself off shopping and the City, and an excellent (and all-female!) discussion including Deborah Meaden and the FT’s Gillian Tett. Try challenging your students to watch and listen to this while noting down every aspect of the syllabus which is mentioned or referred to - that will keep them busy! There was also a debate between Employment Minister Chris Grayling and disability campaigner Sue Marsh about the government’s welfare reforms, defeated in the House of Lords the night before, and finally Tokyo correspondent Roland Buerk looking at Japanese economic stagnation of the late 1980s and 90s, to consider whether it was a “lost decade” and what could be learnt from it. A2 Macro, AS Macro, Business Economics, Cycles and Shocks, Aggregate Demand, Economic History, Economic Growth, Global Economy, Government Intervention, Macroeconomic Policies, Manufacturing Industry, OECD Economies, Japan Economy, Poverty and Inequality, Standard of Living, Teaching of Economics, UK Economy, Unemployment, 2012-01-13T05:11:19+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-4-macro-competitive-advantage-in-trade-some-videos http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-4-macro-competitive-advantage-in-trade-some-videos#When:11:43:21Z Here is a selection of short video clips that I use when teaching competitive advantage in markets and when introducing the factors that determine the competitiveness of UK producers in global markets. The focus here is on the UK economy but I will add some more videos to the blog as I work my way through this teaching topic. AS and A2 Specifications, AQA Economics Unit 4, EdExcel Economics Unit 4, A2 Macro, AS Macro, Balance of Payments, Emerging Economies, Business Economics, Cycles and Shocks, Aggregate Demand, Economic Growth, Economics of Technology, Global Economy, International Trade, Macroeconomic Policies, Supply-side policies, Teaching of Economics, UK Economy, Regional Economics, 2012-01-12T11:43:21+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/economics-at-the-movies-monty-python-money-programme-eric-idle-sketch http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/economics-at-the-movies-monty-python-money-programme-eric-idle-sketch#When:19:49:37Z This classic Monty Python Sketch will bring back fond memories for economics teachers of a certain vintage - but it also has a terrific resonance today - perhaps use it as an introduction to teaching money, banking or exchange rates! Monetarism, Teaching of Economics, Economics at the Movies, 2012-01-11T19:49:37+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/teaching-vacancy-hod-economics-business-at-wellington-college http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/teaching-vacancy-hod-economics-business-at-wellington-college#When:09:31:21Z Another fantastic teaching opportunity here to join our friends at Wellington College.  Details below. Teaching of Economics, Teaching Opportunities, 2012-01-11T09:31:21+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/teaching-vacancy-economics-at-rgs-guildford http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/teaching-vacancy-economics-at-rgs-guildford#When:09:23:33Z This is a superb opportunity to join Paul Bridges (tutor2u presenter and blogger) and his fantastic team at RGS Guildford.  Details below. Teaching of Economics, Teaching Opportunities, 2012-01-11T09:23:33+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-3-micro-prezi-on-environmental-economics http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-3-micro-prezi-on-environmental-economics#When:07:09:51Z This term I am teaching some environmental economics to my A2 groups. The link below provides access to a Prezi on aspects of environmental issues such as the Tragedy of the Commons and the economics of waste and pollution. I will be updating and extending the Prezi as I develop the lessons. I hope that it is useful. I will try to include as many examples as I can on European and Global issues to do with environmental issues - the beauty of a Prezi of course is the flexibility of ordering course materials and the chance to embed lots of vivid You Tube clips and images into the resource. AS and A2 Specifications, AQA Economics Unit 1, AQA Economics Unit 3, EdExcel Economics Unit 1, EdExcel Economics Unit 3, A2 Micro, AS Micro, Emerging Economies, Development Economics, Environmental Economics, Global Economy, Government Intervention, Market Failure, Externalities, Public Goods, Market Equilibrium and Price, Price Mechanism in Action, Teaching of Economics, 2012-01-11T07:09:51+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/revision-evaluation-skills http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/revision-evaluation-skills#When:15:06:12Z Here is a short revision presentation on evaluation skills for AS and A2 economics questions which we produced a couple of years ago which might still be useful for the forthcoming exams. AS and A2 Specifications, AQA Economics Unit 1, AQA Economics Unit 2, AQA Economics Unit 3, AQA Economics Unit 4, Economics Presentations, EdExcel Economics Unit 1, EdExcel Economics Unit 2, EdExcel Economics Unit 3, EdExcel Economics Unit 4, OCR A2 Economics Unit F585, OCR AS Economics Unit F581, OCR AS Economics Unit F582, A2 Macro, A2 Micro, AS Macro, AS Micro, Teaching of Economics, 2012-01-10T15:06:12+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/exam-advice-10-ideas-for-a-better-economics-paper http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/exam-advice-10-ideas-for-a-better-economics-paper#When:14:38:22Z Here are some thoughts on ways to improve your scores on your summer economics exam papers. They are in no particular order but I hope some of them might be useful Ten Thoughts on Improving Your Economics Papers Streamed presentation PDF handout version AS and A2 Specifications, Economics Q&A, Economics Exam Advice, A2 Macro, A2 Micro, AS Macro, AS Micro, Teaching of Economics, 2012-01-10T14:38:22+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-4-macro-does-manufacturing-matter http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-4-macro-does-manufacturing-matter#When:14:16:52Z Vicky Pryce FRSA has a new article on the economic significance of manufacturing industry for UK economic renewal. It is available here from the January 2012 edition of the RSA Journal. In a related article Sir Christopher Frayling FRSA discusses the rise of the Maker Movement. Back in November 2011 Channel 4 news ran a special on the future for UK manufacturing here is a link to a related video AS and A2 Specifications, AQA Economics Unit 4, EdExcel Economics Unit 4, OCR A2 Economics Unit F585, A2 Macro, AS Macro, Business Economics, Management Issues, Manufacturing Industry, Teaching of Economics, UK Economy, Regional Economics, Unemployment, 2012-01-10T14:16:52+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/economics-at-the-movies-freakonomics http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/economics-at-the-movies-freakonomics#When:13:25:03Z This is a splended DVD with a huge amount to interest students. Great for using when discussing incentives and looking at social policy issues from a different angle.My own students love the section featuring Urail King and his attempt to raise his test scores! Teaching of Economics, Economics at the Movies, 2012-01-09T13:25:03+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-4-macro-natural-disasters-and-their-economic-impact http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-4-macro-natural-disasters-and-their-economic-impact#When:23:57:42Z From tsunamis to tornadoes, from droughts to floods, 2011 was a particularly nasty year for natural disasters in many parts of the world. These natural disasters inevitably have demand and supply side effects affecting not just those countries affected but ripple impact across regions and in the broader global economy. The Al Jazeera news video report below provides a clear overview of some of the major natural climatic shocks of 2011 and could easily be used as an introductory resource to discuss what are some of the micro and macroeconomic effects in both the short and medium term. These include: * Effects on the stock of physical capital / infrastructure * Impact on a country’s human capital * Effects on commodity prices, export revenues * Effects on agricultural output, profits, investment, productivity * Ripple effects on manufacturing industries and energy supply/cost * Impact on state tax revenues and the costs of re-building and providing emergency financial support * Effect on the movement of population following extreme climatic events * Natural disasters and changes in the distribution of income / risk of poverty This Economist graphic (published in Jan 2012) looks at the human cost of natural disasters and claims that “the world has succeeded in making natural disasters less deadly.” AS and A2 Specifications, AQA Economics Unit 2, AQA Economics Unit 4, EdExcel Economics Unit 2, EdExcel Economics Unit 4, OCR A2 Economics Unit F585, A2 Macro, AS Macro, Agriculture, Emerging Economies, Cycles and Shocks, Aggregate Supply, Economic Growth, Environmental Economics, Global Economy, Government Intervention, Market Equilibrium and Price, Price Volatility, Teaching of Economics, 2012-01-07T23:57:42+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-2-macro-revision-quiz-on-monetary-policy http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-2-macro-revision-quiz-on-monetary-policy#When:01:22:40Z Here is a ten question revision multiple choice revision quiz on monetary policy designed for students taking AS macroeconomics (unit 2). The quiz has been created using the free software Zondle. AS and A2 Specifications, AQA Economics Unit 2, EdExcel Economics Unit 2, AS Macro, Macroeconomic Policies, Monetary Policy, Teaching of Economics, Digital Learning, 2012-01-07T01:22:40+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-2-macro-revision-quiz-on-economics-of-unemployment http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-2-macro-revision-quiz-on-economics-of-unemployment#When:00:37:16Z Here are some revision multiple choice and type the correct answer questions on aspects of unemployment - designed for students taking AS Macroeconomics. Provide correct answers and see who gets the top score on the crystal cannon! The quiz has been created using Zondle. AS and A2 Specifications, AQA Economics Unit 2, EdExcel Economics Unit 2, AS Macro, Teaching of Economics, Digital Learning, UK Economy, Unemployment, 2012-01-06T00:37:16+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-2-macro-key-term-revision-quiz-on-the-economic-cycle http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-2-macro-key-term-revision-quiz-on-the-economic-cycle#When:21:16:36Z Here is a fourteen question revision quiz on key terms linked to the economic cycle - in this quiz type in the correct answer and earn the right to play a Zondle game! Good luck! AS and A2 Specifications, AQA Economics Unit 2, EdExcel Economics Unit 2, AS Macro, Cycles and Shocks, Teaching of Economics, Digital Learning, 2012-01-04T21:16:36+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/as-amd-a2-economics-10-ways-to-improve-evaluation http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/as-amd-a2-economics-10-ways-to-improve-evaluation#When:06:01:12Z AQA, EdExcel, OCR Economics Evaluation, revision, As students build their revision efforts ahead of the impending A Level Economics units, here is an updated version of my revision document on evaluation skills for AS and A2 economists… AS and A2 Specifications, AQA Economics Unit 1, AQA Economics Unit 2, AQA Economics Unit 3, AQA Economics Unit 4, EdExcel Economics Unit 1, EdExcel Economics Unit 2, EdExcel Economics Unit 3, EdExcel Economics Unit 4, OCR A2 Economics Unit F585, OCR AS Economics Unit F581, OCR AS Economics Unit F582, A2 Macro, A2 Micro, AS Macro, AS Micro, Teaching of Economics, 2012-01-04T06:01:12+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-1-micro-prezi-on-the-economics-of-negative-externalities http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-1-micro-prezi-on-the-economics-of-negative-externalities#When:01:42:13Z This blog provides a link to a constantly updated revision Prezi on negative externalities and market failure - designed for students taking AS Microeconomics Unit 1 and those studying externalities for the IB Diploma. The Prezi contains lots of short news videos on examples of externalities. Click on the link below to access the Prezi. AS and A2 Specifications, AQA Economics Unit 1, EdExcel Economics Unit 1, AS Micro, Environmental Economics, Government Intervention, Government Failure, Indirect Taxes, Regulation, Market Failure, Externalities, Information Failure, Market Equilibrium and Price, Price Mechanism in Action, Teaching of Economics, 2012-01-03T01:42:13+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-1-micro-externalities-from-metal-theft http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-1-micro-externalities-from-metal-theft#When:20:42:02Z If a criminal steals metal from a building yard or a jewellers the impact is relatively isolated but when metal theft extends to lifitng metal from roofs, railway lines and many other public buildings, thousands are inconvenienced and left to pay the cost - negative externalities are clear. This news report from Al Jazeera looks at the growing economic and social problem of metal theft in London and a second video report from Channel 4 news looks at the external costs of copper theft from cables on the rail network that delays services and puts lives at risk. What are the best options for dealing with this crime epidemic? The Met Police has set up a specialist metal theft unit as part of their response. AS and A2 Specifications, AQA Economics Unit 1, EdExcel Economics Unit 1, AS Micro, Government Intervention, Market Failure, Externalities, Teaching of Economics, UK Economy, Regional Economics, 2012-01-02T20:42:02+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/exam-technique-for-a2-economics-weesteps-to-evaluation http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/exam-technique-for-a2-economics-weesteps-to-evaluation#When:15:00:20Z With AS and A2 modules on the horizon, here is a presentation outlines an approach to demonstrating evaluation using the WEESTEPS acronym - the brain-child of one of Paul Bridge’s students at Tiffin School. It is an approach that struck a chord with us all during our Economics revision workshops. The presentation uses a macro topic to illustrate the approach… AS and A2 Specifications, AQA Economics Unit 3, AQA Economics Unit 4, EdExcel Economics Unit 3, EdExcel Economics Unit 4, OCR A2 Economics Unit F585, Teaching of Economics, 2012-01-02T15:00:20+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-4-macro-exchange-rate-economics-where-next-for-the-us-dollar http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-4-macro-exchange-rate-economics-where-next-for-the-us-dollar#When:14:09:21Z Is the US dollar going to be knocked off its perch as the only true global currency? Professor Barry Eichengreen, the author of Exhorbitant Privelege argues that there are strong reasons to believe that the US dollars’ position in the world financial system will decline in the years ahead. The US dollar has been for many years the world’s most powerful currencies but this power seems to be waning as other currencies rise in significance and the US economy struggles to recover from their financial and economic crisis and the fiscal challenge. Eichengreen argues that there will be three truly global currencies going forward - the dollar, the Euro and the remnimbi. AS and A2 Specifications, AQA Economics Unit 2, AQA Economics Unit 4, EdExcel Economics Unit 2, EdExcel Economics Unit 4, A2 Macro, AS Macro, Exchange Rates, Financial Markets, Global Economy, Macroeconomic Policies, OECD Economies, US Economy, Teaching of Economics, 2011-12-31T14:09:21+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-1-micro-biomass-subsidies-and-timber-prices http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-1-micro-biomass-subsidies-and-timber-prices#When:20:55:09Z If you are a fan of laminate flooring, wood panelled walls or neat wood-based fencing for the garden, the chances are that you will be paying higher prices in the years ahead. Despite the Britain offering a temperate climate for a plentiful supply of wood and a well organised system of land registry and plantation management, the UK market price of different types of timber has shot up over the last two years. AS and A2 Specifications, AQA Economics Unit 1, EdExcel Economics Unit 1, AS Micro, Commodities Markets, Cost Benefit Analysis, Environmental Economics, Government Intervention, Government Failure, Market Failure, Market Equilibrium and Price, Nature of Demand, Price Mechanism in Action, Inter-related Markets, Teaching of Economics, 2011-12-30T20:55:09+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/business-people-in-the-news-quiz-2011-edition http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/business-people-in-the-news-quiz-2011-edition#When:10:57:09Z Here is a ten question picture quiz on some of the personalities who have made the business news headline during 2011. How many can you get first time? When you get the questions right - how fast can you speed down the powerboat river? Business Economics, Teaching of Economics, Digital Learning, 2011-12-30T10:57:09+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/which-gcse-and-or-a-level-economics-exam-board-do-you-use http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/which-gcse-and-or-a-level-economics-exam-board-do-you-use#When:08:39:37Z We are putting together a survey of Economics teachers to assess the current market shares of awarding bodies for GCSE & A Level Economics.  Which boards do you currently offer at your school or college? Teaching of Economics, 2011-12-30T08:39:37+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-4-macro-development-issues-the-baby-boom-in-zambia http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-4-macro-development-issues-the-baby-boom-in-zambia#When:16:33:41Z In this special report from BBC reporter Fergus Walsh, the rapid population growth in the African country of Zambia is examined. Population growth in the country is so quick that it could perpetuate deep poverty in the country despite relatively fast growth in recent years. In Zambia, the UN predicts that the population could triple by 2050, reaching 100 million by the end of the century. AS and A2 Specifications, AQA Economics Unit 4, EdExcel Economics Unit 4, A2 Macro, AS Macro, Emerging Economies, African Economy, Demography, Economic Growth, Poverty and Inequality, Standard of Living, Teaching of Economics, 2011-12-29T16:33:41+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/2011-in-review-a-year-of-living-dangerously http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/2011-in-review-a-year-of-living-dangerously#When:16:33:09Z Here is an excellent overview and discussion of the tumultuous events of 2011 from the Channel 4 team. See below for the link to a twelve minute video retrospective and discussion. Teaching of Economics, 2011-12-29T16:33:09+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/european-economics-resources-on-the-cap http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/european-economics-resources-on-the-cap#When:19:47:30Z This blog entry will provide a regularly updated set of links to resources to the European Union’s Common Agricultural Policy and attempts to reform this contentious and complex system of farm support. Check below for suggested links AS and A2 Specifications, AQA Economics Unit 1, AQA Economics Unit 3, EdExcel Economics Unit 1, EdExcel Economics Unit 4, OCR A2 Economics Unit F585, A2 Micro, AS Micro, Agriculture, Emerging Economies, Commodities Markets, European Economy, EU Farming and Fishing, Government Intervention, Buffer Stocks, Government Failure, OECD Economies, French Economy, Market Equilibrium and Price, Price Mechanism in Action, Teaching of Economics, UK Economy, Regional Economics, 2011-12-28T19:47:30+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/resources-on-keynes-and-hayek http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/resources-on-keynes-and-hayek#When:03:42:45Z In this blog we are putting together a suite of web-based resources on the clash between supporters of Keynes and Hayek, a debate that have gathered momentum in recent times largely in the wake of the global financial crisis. AS and A2 Specifications, AQA Economics Unit 2, AQA Economics Unit 4, EdExcel Economics Unit 2, EdExcel Economics Unit 4, A2 Macro, AS Macro, Cycles and Shocks, Economic Growth, Macroeconomic Policies, Keynesian Economics, Teaching of Economics, 2011-12-28T03:42:45+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-2-macro-the-uk-housing-market-in-2011 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-2-macro-the-uk-housing-market-in-2011#When:14:44:39Z This blog provides a chart-based overview of developments in the UK housing market in 2011. The housing industry has a big effect on macroeconomic variables such as output, employment and investment. Has there been a marked recovery in property prices, new housing starts and mortgage lending? AS and A2 Specifications, AQA Economics Unit 2, EdExcel Economics Unit 2, AS Macro, Housing Economics, Market Equilibrium and Price, Price Mechanism in Action, Teaching of Economics, UK Economy, Regional Economics, London Economy, Recession Watch, 2011-12-26T14:44:39+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-2-macro-brazil-overtakes-uk-in-economic-size http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-2-macro-brazil-overtakes-uk-in-economic-size#When:09:36:59Z The Guardian has reported new research from the CEBR that Brazil is set to overtake the UK to become the sixth biggest economy in the world. The U.S., China, Japan, Germany and France occupy the top five places. Typically the Sun newspaper gets their economics muddled with this piece of sloppy writing “BRITAIN will fall to seventh in the league table of the world’s richest countries next year when it is leap-frogged by buoyant Brazil.” Brazil richer than the UK? The Sun is confusing the size of GDP with the level of real GDP per capita (adjusted to a purchasing power standard). And as our Timetric chart shows below there remains an enormous gap in average living standards between the UK and Brazil. AS and A2 Specifications, AQA Economics Unit 2, EdExcel Economics Unit 2, AS Macro, Emerging Economies, Brazil Economy, Global Economy, Standard of Living, Teaching of Economics, UK Economy, 2011-12-26T09:36:59+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-4-macro-human-capital-and-economic-growth http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-4-macro-human-capital-and-economic-growth#When:16:06:44Z In A2 macroeconomics the underlying causes of economic growth and development and constraints on both of these are covered in more depth. One of the concepts students might be familiar with is that of human capital. I have always summarised the idea of human capital as being a measure of the overall quality of the human input available to produce goods and services in an economy. The ONS have published a new study on the value of human capital in the UK and they draw on a definition given by the OECD AS and A2 Specifications, AQA Economics Unit 4, EdExcel Economics Unit 4, OCR A2 Economics Unit F585, A2 Micro, AS Macro, Emerging Economies, Development Economics, Economic Growth, Labour Market, International Trade, Macroeconomic Policies, Supply-side policies, Teaching of Economics, Tuesday Talks, UK Economy, Unemployment, 2011-12-23T16:06:44+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/great-blog-to-follow-joseph-rowntree-foundation http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/great-blog-to-follow-joseph-rowntree-foundation#When:12:33:53Z If you are at all interested in the latest research findings in the domains of poverty, inequality, economic and social exclusion and the social impact of government policies, the Joseph Rowntree Foundation website is highly recommended. In this particular blog the JRF provide a revealing list of things that they have found during the course of 2011 - there is some excellent background evidence here for AS and A2 students wanting data to support their work on poverty and inequality and social trends in the UK. You can also follow the JRF on Twitter - use this link AS and A2 Specifications, AQA Economics Unit 1, AQA Economics Unit 3, EdExcel Economics Unit 1, EdExcel Economics Unit 3, A2 Micro, AS Micro, Poverty and Inequality, Standard of Living, Teaching of Economics, Teaching Opportunities, UK Economy, 2011-12-22T12:33:53+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/economics-christmas-panto-cinderella-2011 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/economics-christmas-panto-cinderella-2011#When:11:47:18Z I have set my AS and A2 Economics classes a Christmas task, to write a panto script! The Story so far is in the attached word document - it tells the story of Cinderella (aka the UK economy) and the hard times she is facing, with a Wicked Stepmother and two Ugly Sisters to struggle against. But Cinders has some friends, and just as she is in despair, her Fairy Godmother, Buttons and Prince Charming (Supply-side and Demand-side fiscal policy and Quantitative Easing), turn up to rescue her. The task for the students is to write the script for the rest of the story, as each of her friends describe how they can help, and as she decides which of them can help her to live happily ever after. My A2 classes spent the last two lessons of term writing and acting out their scripts, with some truly memorable results! My AS classes have been set this as a Christmas task, and I look forward to some great performances to come in January - and I don’t see why this couldn’t be used as an early January lesson. If I was setting the task now, I would probably insist that they should include at least 3 direct references to the data in Geoff’s great Prospects for the UK Economy in 2012 powerpoint Cinderella_-_chrismas_lessons_panto_2011-1.doc A2 Macro, AS Macro, Teaching of Economics, Lesson Worksheets, UK Economy, Recession Watch, Quirky Trivia, 2011-12-22T11:47:18+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/enrichment-lectures-at-the-lse-spring-2012 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/enrichment-lectures-at-the-lse-spring-2012#When:09:46:48Z There are some tremendous lectures scheduled for the LSE as we head into 2012. All are free and students and teachers can turn up on the day but some are ticketed because of strong demand. Here is a link for the ticketed events, always kept up to date as new events are unveiled. Many more schools are now attending the lectures and it is always fun to meet up with colleagues there, please let me know if you are coming. Teaching of Economics, 2011-12-22T09:46:48+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-4-macro-prospects-for-the-african-economy http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-4-macro-prospects-for-the-african-economy#When:20:47:49Z In recent times there have been several new reports focusing on growth and development prospects for the African continent. Contained within them is plenty of useful background analysis and comment for students and teachers who spend time looking at developments and issues affecting Africa as part of their economics studies. Follow the links below for more details: AS and A2 Specifications, AQA Economics Unit 4, EdExcel Economics Unit 4, OCR A2 Economics Unit F585, A2 Macro, AS Macro, Emerging Economies, African Economy, Development Economics, Commodities Markets, Economic Growth, Global Economy, Teaching of Economics, 2011-12-21T20:47:49+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-3-micro-sub-normal-profits-bp-leaves-the-solar-industry http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-3-micro-sub-normal-profits-bp-leaves-the-solar-industry#When:09:32:16Z British Petroleum has decided to exit the solar energy energy industry claiming that the business has become unprofitable because of excess supply and falling prices. In 2011 a number of solar firms have gone out of business including California’s Solyndra and Germany’s Solon. BP will focus instead on investing in other renewable energy sectors including wind power and biofuels. Whilst the decision by BP to exit the industry appears significant, infact total global investment in solar power continues to rise. MidAmerican Energy Holdings owned by Warren Buffett have agreed to purchase a $2 billion solar project under development in California and a 49 percent stake in a $1.8 billion plant in Arizona. Google Inc. and KKR & Co have announced a joint venture to pump money in four California solar power plants with total capacity of 88 megawatts. The powerful search engine business uses a huge anount of energy every year and has committed itself to large scale investment in renewable energy supplies to help power their server farms.   AS and A2 Specifications, AQA Economics Unit 3, EdExcel Economics Unit 3, A2 Micro, AS Micro, Cost Benefit Analysis, Environmental Economics, Government Intervention, Subsidies, Market Failure, Market Equilibrium and Price, Nature of Demand, Nature of Supply, Teaching of Economics, 2011-12-21T09:32:16+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/economics-new-quiz-for-2011 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/economics-new-quiz-for-2011#When:07:20:52Z Here is a festive selection of questions on economics and business in the news during 2011. Created using Zondle! have a go and see what you can score on the cannonball canon! Economics in News Quiz, Teaching of Economics, Digital Learning, 2011-12-21T07:20:52+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/current-affairs-collections-of-2011-in-pictures http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/current-affairs-collections-of-2011-in-pictures#When:17:38:56Z At this time of year many of the major news organizations put together collections of some of the most vivid images of the year - here is a personal collection of their output - superb for encouraging students to keep up with their current affairs and for students and teachers looking for memorable images to enhance their learning. Teaching of Economics, 2011-12-20T17:38:56+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/economics-of-deforestation http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/economics-of-deforestation#When:16:53:58Z The Human Development Report 2011 reported that deforestation is a severe problem. In the last two decades, Latin American and Sub-Saharan Africa have experienced severe forest losses, especially when compared to the rest of the world. For economists the economic and social costs of rapid deforestation represent a telling example of the tragedy of the commons where the pursuit of individual self-interest can risk a permanent destruction of natural resources that undermines the sustainability of communities and societies for current and future generations. The United Nations calculates that deforestation and degradation is responsible for nearly 20 per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions. Will the REDD programme make a difference? REDD stands for Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation in Developing Countries and is designed to provide financial incentives funded by advanced nations for developing countries to preserve their forests and instead invest in low-carbon paths to sustainable development. The UN estimates financial flows of up to $30bn could come from REDD and related initiatives - the scheme effectively allows rich countries to offset their carbon emissions from domestic industries and consumers by funding clean low-carbon development projects in developing countries. But it is highly controversial and opposed by many organisations such as Friends of the Earth and the World Rainforest Movement. In this blog we have put together some web resources on the issue of deforestation - focusing on causation, consequences and also on some of the policy approaches that might work to bring about behavioural change. AS and A2 Specifications, AQA Economics Unit 1, AQA Economics Unit 3, EdExcel Economics Unit 1, EdExcel Economics Unit 4, OCR A2 Economics Unit F585, A2 Macro, A2 Micro, AS Micro, Agriculture, Emerging Economies, African Economy, Development Economics, Brazil Economy, Commodities Markets, Cost Benefit Analysis, Economic Growth, Environmental Economics, Global Economy, Government Intervention, Market Failure, Externalities, Public Goods, Teaching of Economics, 2011-12-20T16:53:58+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/economics-resource-to-follow-bbc-biz-daily http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/economics-resource-to-follow-bbc-biz-daily#When:12:09:29Z The BBC World Service Business Daily Podcast is a terrific resource to follow and use as extension and enrichment material. The daily programme can be downloaded as a podcast and is available for thirty days after transmission. A wonderful range of topical global issues are covered and it is ideal for teachers who want to draw in new insights and comment. Here is the link to follow Teaching of Economics, 2011-12-20T12:09:29+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/ed-conway-to-speak-at-the-economics-teacher-national-conference-2012 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/ed-conway-to-speak-at-the-economics-teacher-national-conference-2012#When:09:55:28Z The speaker line-up for the Economics Teacher National Conference 2012 is starting to take shape and we are delighted to say that Ed Conway, the Economics Editor of Sky News will be one of the key note speakers.   Teaching of Economics, 2011-12-20T09:55:28+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/prezi-on-information-failures http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/prezi-on-information-failures#When:08:46:03Z Click below to open a new Prezi on aspects of information failures / gaps and market failure together with some of the interventions that might be used to address imfornation imperfections in many markets. AS and A2 Specifications, AQA Economics Unit 1, EdExcel Economics Unit 1, Economics Q&A, Q&A - Market Failure, A2 Micro, AS Micro, Government Intervention, Regulation, Market Failure, Information Failure, Merit & De-Merit Goods, Market Equilibrium and Price, Teaching of Economics, 2011-12-20T08:46:03+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/economic-corruption-global-rankings-for-2011 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/economic-corruption-global-rankings-for-2011#When:16:28:33Z The scale and depth of corruption - defined by Transparency International as the abuse of entrusted power for private gain varies greatly across the world. No country can ever score a perfect score for eliminating corruption from their economy but the annual rankings of perceived corruption provide a useful way of identifying the best and the worst performers (most of whom are plagued by extreme poverty, war and failed government). Systemic corruption damages human lives and can undermine almost everything that international organisations seek to do to promote development and poverty reduction. Several countries have made sizeable progress in tackling and reducing endemic corruption and are thus better placed to attract sustainable inward investment as part of their development strategies. Here is a link to a video on the Economic Corruption rankings for 2011 produced by Transparency International AS and A2 Specifications, AQA Economics Unit 2, AQA Economics Unit 4, EdExcel Economics Unit 2, EdExcel Economics Unit 4, OCR A2 Economics Unit F585, A2 Macro, AS Macro, Emerging Economies, Development Economics, Teaching of Economics, 2011-12-19T16:28:33+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/prospects-for-the-uk-economy-in-2012-powerpoint-download http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/prospects-for-the-uk-economy-in-2012-powerpoint-download#When:08:52:40Z Geoff has kindly made available for download his presentation made to students at Dulwich College recently in which he analyses the prospects for the UK Economy in 2012. A Slideshare-streamed version is also provided below. AS and A2 Specifications, AQA Economics Unit 2, AQA Economics Unit 4, EdExcel Economics Unit 2, EdExcel Economics Unit 4, OCR A2 Economics Unit F585, A2 Macro, AS Macro, Cycles and Shocks, Global Economy, Inflation and Deflation, Macroeconomic Policies, Teaching of Economics, UK Economy, 2011-12-19T08:52:40+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/millennium-development-goals-uneven-progress http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/millennium-development-goals-uneven-progress#When:10:03:24Z This blog brings together some recent videos on progress made towards meeting some of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). The Millennium Development Goals include ambitious targets to o Eradicate extreme poverty and hunger o Achieve universal primary education o Promote gender equality and empower women o Reduce child mortality and improve maternal health o Combat HIV/AIDS, malaria and other diseases o Ensure environmental sustainability and develop a global partnership for development AS and A2 Specifications, AQA Economics Unit 2, AQA Economics Unit 4, EdExcel Economics Unit 2, EdExcel Economics Unit 4, OCR A2 Economics Unit F585, A2 Macro, AS Macro, Agriculture, Emerging Economies, Development Economics, Demography, Economic Growth, Environmental Economics, Global Economy, Standard of Living, Teaching of Economics, 2011-12-18T10:03:24+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-3-micro-patent-wars-a-touchy-subject-for-apple http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-3-micro-patent-wars-a-touchy-subject-for-apple#When:17:24:57Z This excellent news piece from Ben Cohen at Channel 4 looks at the increasingly aggressive patent war being fought by the manufacturers of the world’s leading mobile phone and tablet devices - the most profitable products in the digital economy. “Where once the giants (Google and Apple) competed on features, they now compete on patents.” The news feature looks in particular at the intellectual property surrounding the slide-screen technology used by millions to unlock a device. Apple claims the IP to this but a video tracked back to twenty years ago suggests that developers were already thinking of something remarkably similar long before the iPhone came into existence. Can the makers of Android defend legal claims from Apple that their IP has been infringed? And who will end up paying for the enormous legal fees and possible extra licencing costs?   AS and A2 Specifications, AQA Economics Unit 3, EdExcel Economics Unit 3, A2 Micro, Business Economics, Monopoly, Oligopoly, Economic Growth, Economics of Technology, European Economy, Single Market, Government Intervention, Regulation, Market Equilibrium and Price, Nature of Demand, Teaching of Economics, 2011-12-16T17:24:57+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/introduction-to-neuroeconomics-fusing-psychology-with-economics http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/introduction-to-neuroeconomics-fusing-psychology-with-economics#When:16:16:36Z This autumn I have been given lots of practice interviews with and helping to support the reading of students interested in reading Economics at many UK and US universities, but also those keen to explore degrees including Human Sciences and Psychology. I have no background in the sciences but it has been fascinating to find out more as an interested lay person. Some of this has happened at the superb lectures and discussions at the RSA whose Social Brain Project is well worth following. Just recently I went to hear Andrew Oswald talk about the psychology of herd behaviour Neuroeconomics brings together the disciplines of economics, psychology and neuroscience. I have put together a selection of recent articles that seem to me to explain what it might offer and I will happily add more links if colleagues have some other good resources to share. Behavioural Economics, Teaching of Economics, 2011-12-16T16:16:36+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/teaching-vacancy-head-of-humanities-department-at-the-international-school http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/teaching-vacancy-head-of-humanities-department-at-the-international-school#When:08:26:14Z Many thanks to Simon Foley at the International School of Lausanne for letting us know about a superb teaching opportunity that I know will be of interest to many colleagues.  Details below. Teaching of Economics, Teaching Opportunities, 2011-12-16T08:26:14+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/jim-oneill-to-open-the-economics-teacher-national-conference-2012 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/jim-oneill-to-open-the-economics-teacher-national-conference-2012#When:13:20:34Z The speaker line-up for the Economics Teacher National Conference 2012 is starting to take shape and we’re delighted to announce the first session on the day will be led by Jim O’Neill.  You can read more about Jim further below. The ETNC 2012 takes place on Wednesday 27 June 2012 at our traditional venue - the stunning British Library Conference Auditorium at St Pancras in Central London.  Places can be provisionally booked using this form: https://tutor2u.wufoo.com/forms/economics-teacher-national-conf-2012-booking-form/ Teaching of Economics, 2011-12-15T13:20:34+00:00