040289 UK Gender Economics (BA) (2020W)

Course description: This course is for bachelor students and covers selected topics in applied economics. We explore the determinants of gender specific differences in the labor market and discuss theoretical aspects as well as empirical and experimental evidence of gender wage differences. Topics covered in this course include women in the work force, wage differences and wage discrimination. We also discuss the effect of competition on discrimination as well as psychological and socio-psychological factors regarding gender differences in risk preferences, in attitudes towards competition, and in attitudes towards negotiation. Based on the identified determinants we analyze policies to increase female labor force participation and reduce the gender wage gap. We also discuss how to implement such polices.

Aim: The aim of this course is to expand students’ knowledge in the field of gender economics. Using empirical, experimental and theoretical papers, students should learn how to identify the determinants of the gender wage gap and how to analyze policies to reduce this gap. After taking the course students should also be able to read and understand project reports and journal articles that make use of the concepts and methods that are introduced in the course. Students should also learn how to apply theoretical and empirical concepts in gender economics to real world cases. Students should further extend their ability to effectively structure and communicate economic content in written form to audiences from academia, government and business.

Method: The course will be taught through a combination of lectures, students' presentations and discussions. The first part of the course gives an overview to the field of gender economics and includes lectures on household theory, labor supply and household production, wage determinants, theories of discrimination, empirical methods and results. The second part of the course consists of students’ presentations on empirical and experimental evidence on wage differences.