Accessibility statement

Experimental and Behavioural Economics - ECO00054H

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  • Department: Economics and Related Studies
  • Module co-ordinator: Dr. Dominic Spengler
  • Credit value: 20 credits
  • Credit level: H
  • Academic year of delivery: 2024-25
    • See module specification for other years: 2023-24

Module summary

Experimental and Behavioural Economics teaches a method of data generation where this is otherwise difficult and shows how this method can be used to test orthodox against unorthodox economic models.

Related modules

Pre-requisite modules

Co-requisite modules

  • None

Prohibited combinations

  • None

Module will run

Occurrence Teaching period
A Semester 2 2024-25

Module aims

Experimental and Behavioural Economics will consider both traditional theories and models of economics as well as alternative theories, for example by relaxing orthodox assumptions. This module will link theory with empirical implications and aims to provide an insight into the contribution of experimentation to modern economics.

Module learning outcomes

On successful completion of the module, a student will understand:

  • what areas and aspects of economics -- behavioural or otherwise -- can be subject to experimentation

  • the kind of information that can be provided by experiments

  • the main methodological issues in designing and running an experiment

  • through the group project assessment, a student will have some significant experience of working as a researcher

Module content

The module covers first a journey through different areas of economics where experimentation typically is used (such as markets, rationality, other-regarding preferences, finance etc). Then it takes a perspective through method and design choices (e.g. what types of subjects are used, how data is extracted via choices etc).

Assessment

Task Length % of module mark
Essay/coursework
Experimental and Behavioural Economics 1000 words		 N/A 10
Essay/coursework
Experimental and Behavioural Economics 3000 words		 N/A 90

Special assessment rules

None

Reassessment

Task Length % of module mark
Essay/coursework
Experimental and Behavioural Economics 3000 words		 N/A 90

Module feedback

Students will receive a mark on their 10% first assessment point and extensive written feedback for the group project (this covers all sections of their project).

Indicative reading

The reading comprises all the papers which we cover in the lectures (where each lecture covers a topic, going over one or several papers in that topic).


The information on this page is indicative of the module that is currently on offer. The University is constantly exploring ways to enhance and improve its degree programmes and therefore reserves the right to make variations to the content and method of delivery of modules, and to discontinue modules, if such action is reasonably considered to be necessary by the University. Where appropriate, the University will notify and consult with affected students in advance about any changes that are required in line with the University's policy on the Approval of Modifications to Existing Taught Programmes of Study.