Suggests ways in which teachers of economics may use online bibliographic and numerical databases to enhance lectures and update reading lists. Focuses on techniques which can reduce the costs of such searches and includes a section on introducing students to online searching for their term papers. (JDH)

This article describes an economic model dealing with the demand for money and a microcomputer program which enables students to experiment with cash management techniques. By simulating personal experiences, the program teaches how changes in income, interest rates, and charges for exchanging bonds and cash affect money demand. (Author/JDH)

Illustrates different types of opportunities for using computer assisted instruction (CAI) on personal computers in the teaching of economics with four examples of currently available software. Describes the difficulties in providing and supporting CAI, and concludes with an analysis of the difficulties caused by the "public goods character" of…

Discusses and describes several studies regarding experimental economics. Recommends that economics teachers and textbook authors incorporate more of these projects into their work. Presents a consumer demand exercise that incorporates experimental economics into the classroom. (RKM)

In an undergraduate course in international economics, students are required to answer all questions on examinations and to assign weights to the questions to be used in calculating grades. Seventy-three percent of the students like this format. One surprising result is that poorer students have a much better perception of their knowledge level…

Presents an example that illustrates the connection between taxation of private goods or services and provision of public goods or services. Demonstrates that the burdens of taxation in the private sector can in theory be offset by gains in consumer surplus in the public sector, providing a more balanced view than can be found in many introductory…

Considers alternative methods for using the computer in the intermediate macroeconomics course. Presents a flexible approach to using computer spreadsheets to illustrate the principal elements of macrotheory. Shows that the ability to fully integrate algebraic, numerical, and graphical presentations with electronic spreadsheets adds a significant…

Examines computer software currently available with most introductory economics textbooks. Compares what is available with what should be available in order to meet the goal of effectively using the microcomputer to teach economic principles. Recommends 14 specific pedagogical changes that should be made in order to improve current designs. (LS)

Describes how economists have typically used literary works and viewed their authors. Provides a selection of literary treatments of economic concepts, issues, and themes as resources for high school and university economics instructors. Comments on the scope and diversity of these materials. Includes a bibliography of literary works with…

Contends that, although most economics students are acquainted with the graphical analysis of the income and substitution effects of a price change, they often fail to appreciate that the same graphs provide information on the income elasticities of the two goods. Illustrates the proof of this concept using mathematical formulae and five graphic…

Contends that, despite ongoing criticism, Allen's arc elasticity formula remains entrenched in the microeconomics principles curriculum. Reviews the evolution and continuing scrutiny of the formula. Argues that the use of the geometric mean offers pedagogical advantages over the traditional arithmetic mean approach. (CFR)

Maintains that George A. Custer's "Last Stand" can be used in teaching economics classes. Explains how economic incentives and the self-interest of those involved fit within the public choice analysis model. (CFR)

Describes an exercise, step-by-step, for developing critical thinking while exposing students to electronic-data skills. Argues that the exercise enhances critical thinking by forcing students to deal with issues of data definition, collection, and interpretation, and by providing an active learning experience with real-world data. (DSK)

Observes that instructors may not use news items extensively as a source of assigned materials because of the cost incurred in their procurement. Argues that the Internet provides a much less expensive and wider pool of current resources for instructors. Reviews traditional paper and new electronic newsclip production methods. (DSK)

Describes a one-semester economics course in which students assume the role of key figures in the development of economic thought, ranging from the mercantilists through the early neoclassicists. Structures class discussion thematically rather than chronologically, so characters are conversationally engaged in each class. (DSK)