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Are There Learning Spillovers in Introductory Macroeconomics?

Author

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  • Ross Guest

    (Griffith University, Australia)

  • Nerina Vecchio

    (Griffith University, Australia)

Abstract

This study examines the effect on learning outcomes for given topics in macroeconomics of conflating a two-semester micro and macroeconomics course into a one-semester combined micro/macro course by dropping some topics. A hypothesis that learning spillovers exist between topics is developed and tested. This is done by comparing examination results on a given set of multiple-choice questions for two large groups of students one who had undertaken a single-semester course in macroeconomics and another who had undertaken a single-semester combined micro/macroeconomics course. In our sample, the latter group of students scored significantly less on average than the former group, after controlling for other factors, even though both had 'learned' the same topics that were examined. This suggests that positive learning spillovers do exist between topics and therefore that dropping some topics reduces the quality of learning outcomes on other topics. This has implications for the apparent trend towards reducing the mandatory number of economics units in business degrees in Australia from two to one.

Suggested Citation

  • Ross Guest & Nerina Vecchio, 2003. "Are There Learning Spillovers in Introductory Macroeconomics?," International Review of Economic Education, Economics Network, University of Bristol, vol. 1(1), pages 36-60.
    • Handle: RePEc:che:ireepp:v:1:y:2003:i:1:p:36-60
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    Cited by:

    1. Rupert G. Rhodd & Sandra M. Schrouder & Marcus T. Allen, 2009. "Does the Performance on Principles of Economics Courses Affect the Overall Academic Success of Undergraduate Business Majors?," International Review of Economic Education, Economics Network, University of Bristol, vol. 8(1), pages 48-63.
    2. Paul Dalziel, 2011. "Schumpeter's 'Vision' and the Teaching of Principles of Economics to Resource Students," International Review of Economic Education, Economics Network, University of Bristol, vol. 10(2), pages 63-74.
    3. James E. Alvey, 2011. "A Short History of Ethics and Economics," Books, Edward Elgar Publishing, number 12674.

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