In 1995, 2000, and 2005, the authors surveyed U.S. academic economists to investigate how economics is taught in four different types of undergraduate courses at postsecondary institutions. They especially looked for any changes in teaching methods that occurred over this decade, when there were several prominent calls for economists and…

Reviews research which compares the effectiveness of programed instruction (PI) in economics to lecture-discussion techniques. Studies demonstrate that students using PI perform as well on examinations as students using the traditional method. There is also some evidence that students using PI retain their learning better. (AM)

This paper reports on an evaluation of the Sterling Institute self-paced macroeconomics course at Northern Illinois University. Results show that a completely self-paced teaching format for macroeconomics is inferior to a well-directed, concept-oriented, graduate-student instructed, lecture-discussion taught course. (Author/RM)

A study determined that simulation-gaming was a more effective teaching technique for students with low prior knowledge of economics, low Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) scores, and no high school economics instruction. Lecture-discussion was more effective for those with high precourse economic knowledge, SAT scores, and high school economics…

Examines effective teaching techniques using a unique data set that allows matching student and instructor characteristics to assess impact on student interest in economics. Finds devoting more time to discussion is effective but varies by type of student. Determines that a using many teaching techniques appeals to learning styles adopted by good…

Reports on a national survey of 207 undergraduate economics instructors. Although the lecture method still dominates, many instructors noted that they had integrated more participatory activities such as class discussions, group activities, and instructor questions into their instruction. Includes statistical tables showing characteristics and…

Ten newsletter issues on the Graduate Teacher Program (GTP) at the University of Colorado are presented. The initial issue provides an overview of the GTP and the University Learning Center, and covers scholarships offered to graduate students, the Graduate Student Advisory Council, and student support services on the Boulder campus. Additional…

The effectiveness of the simulation-gaming method of instruction as opposed to the lecture-discussion method in teaching a college introductory economics course is examined. One hundred and twenty Ashland College freshmen were tested to determine their knowledge, interest, and training in economics; retention of knowledge seven weeks after the…