This seminar provides students with an opportunity to research and write a case study on an environmental problem/policy or a landmark environmental judicial decision. Key learning goals of the course are to (i) develop and improve microeconomics analytical and reasoning skills, (ii) develop and improve ability to apply theoretical microeconomics to understand, explain, and critically assess real world situations, and (iii) develop and improve written and oral communication skills, all using a field of economics which provides a rich set of fascinating and accessible topics. Due to the myriad of possible topics, the seminar does not include a lecture series. Instead, I meet one-on-one with each student at various stages of the research and writing process to provide help and constructive suggestions as to how to improve their paper and meet course learning goals. ECON 482 has produced five Purvis Prize winners (best seminar paper) to date!
Students are required to (i) submit a paper proposal for approval, (ii) submit a draft paper prior to presentation, (iii) submit a revised draft for posting on the course website prior to presentation, (iv) present a PowerPoint presentation of revised draft, and (v) submit a final research paper. Papers must be typed, double-spaced and not exceed 5,000 words (20 pages). Students are required to read all seminar papers in advance and to participate in all seminar discussions. The final grade is determined as follows:
- Paper, Presentation and Process 85%
- Seminar Participation 15%
Attendance in all classes, meetings, and presentations is mandatory.