An International Exercise to Increase Awareness of How Market, Political, and Cultural Institutions Affect Economic Activity

Abstract

This article presents an active-learning research exercise for an introductory principles of macroeconomics course. Students find data on specific economic, cultural, and political details of an assigned country, supplement the data by finding information on current events, and assess the combined effects of market, political, and cultural institutions on the country's economy. Several presentation formats facilitate the sharing of student findings in the classroom. The exercise is intended to enhance students’ skills in economic analysis, data and information collection, and written and oral communication. It also allows students to broaden their exposure to economies and cultures other than their own.