Decent work and economic growth: Achieving SDG 8 from edX

The achievement of the SDGs—and SDG 8 in particular—requires economic activity to increase and often requires structural transformation. The process of structural transformation can take several forms—this affects the structure of the economy and the jobs available; it impacts who benefits from development and who gets left behind. This brings forth the developer’s dilemma, the concern that economic development inevitably leads to increased inequality. Where workers are situated on the job ladder, whether they are formal or informal workers, and whether there is opportunity to transition from informal to formal employment will also impact how much they will be able to benefit from the process of structural transformation. However, there are policy pathways that could support more equal and sustainable economic development.

This 6-week course provides an in-depth look at the latest UNU-WIDER research and shares insights that can support policymaking during the process of structural transformation.

This course is for:

Policy professionals who want to understand the policy interventions that can support sustainable and equitable economic development while creating opportunities for decent work.
Development practitioners interested in the different pathways available in developing economies for progress towards achieving SDG 8.
Advanced undergraduates and graduate students interested in economics, development, and other key concepts related to the SDGs.

What's inside

Learning objectives

What new pathways of structural transformation are available
Why it’s time to rethink the informal economy

How to deal with the developer’s dilemma and avoid rising inequality
Where workers are on the job ladder, and how to transition workers to better jobs

What new pathways of structural transformation are available
Why it’s time to rethink the informal economy
How to deal with the developer’s dilemma and avoid rising inequality
Where workers are on the job ladder, and how to transition workers to better jobs

Syllabus

**Module 1: Understanding structural transformation - Kunal Sen**

Chapter 1: An introduction to structural transformation: what it is, the features of structural transformation and new findings.

Chapter 2: Finding patterns in new data on the structural transformation of underdeveloped, developing and developed countries.

Chapter 3: An exploration of the different pathways of structural transformation

Chapter 4: Policy takeaway: Policy recommendations for countries in different stages of development.

Module 2: Informal employment, decent and productive work - Marty Chen

Chapter 1: An explanation of the terms & definitions related to informal employment and why policy makers should focus on informal workers.

Chapter 2: Discussing the formalization debate, using street vendors as an example.

Chapter 3: An exploration of how understanding informal work is critical to achieving sustainable development, and particularly decent work for all.

Chapter 4: Case study - Don't throw it all away: Waste pickers in Bogotá

Module 3: The developer’s dilemma - Kunal Sen and Andy Sumner

Chapter 1: An explanation of the developer's dilemma: the tradeoff between economic growth and equality and the implications of the inequality that occurs.

Chapter 2: Exploring types of structural transformation and the Kuznetsian tension.

Chapter 3: Examples of countries undergoing structural transformation in recent years within the structural transformation table.

Chapter 4: Exploring the developer's dilemma through specific country examples - looking at patterns in inequality and poverty in Indonesia and Thailand

Chapter 5: Key takeaways from the country examples - discussing the future of economic development and the developer's dilemma.

Chapter 6: Background on the developer’s dilemma - and the difference between the Kuznets and Lewis ways of looking at development and inequality.

Module 4: The job ladder - Gary Fields

Chapter 1: An explanation of the job ladder and the various types of informality within the new framework

Chapter 2: Exploring the findings and patterns from data on income and work status across Asia, Latin America, Middle East and North Africa and sub-Saharan Africa.

Chapter 3: Policy considerations based on the new data and job ladder framework.

Chapter 4: Kunal Sen explains how policy options have to be region specific

Module 5: Informal work and COVID-19 - Mike Rogan

Chapter 1: How did Covid 19 affect informal workers?

Chapter 2: A close look at the data on which groups of people were most affected by the pandemic.

Chapter 3: Advice for a successful recovery that promotes decent work, with specific country examples.

Chapter 4: Case study - Reclaiming rights in Khayelitsha.

Chapter 5: Case study - Street sellers in Khayelitsha.

Module 6: Closing questions & key takeaways - Kunal Sen and Marty Chen

Chapter 1: Why study informal employment now?

Chapter 2: What is an example of informal employment?

Chapter 3: How do we help informal workers into the formal economy?

Chapter 4: What are dependent contractors?

Chapter 5: How do you move towards formality?

Chapter 6: Why should we prioritise the informal economy?

Chapter 7: What is an example of a win/win policy solution?

Chapter 8: How can we make policy regulation more accessible?

Chapter 9: Why should we care about informality?

Chapter 10: Is economic growth enough?

Chapter 11: What should policymakers take from this course?

Chapter 12: Can policy make a difference?

Chapter 13: Is there a reason for optimism?

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Explores the developer's dilemma, which is central to the study of development

Examines the informal economy, which is a significant aspect of developing economies

Taught by experts in the field, including Kunal Sen, Andy Summer, Gary S. Fielda, and Michael Rogan

Provides insights that can support policymaking during the process of structural transformation

Covers key concepts related to the SDGs, including decent work and sustainable economic development

Suitable for a range of learners, including policy professionals, development practitioners, and students

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Decent work and economic growth: Achieving SDG 8 with these activities:

Review key economic concepts

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Reviewing core economic principles will strengthen your understanding of the concepts covered in this course.

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Read introductory textbooks or online resources on microeconomics and macroeconomics.
Take practice quizzes or solve problems related to basic economic concepts.
Discuss economic principles with peers or a tutor.

Mentor junior students or professionals interested in economic development

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Mentoring others not only reinforces your knowledge but also develops your communication and leadership skills.

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Reach out to organizations or individuals looking for mentors.
Prepare to share your knowledge, experience, and insights.
Meet regularly with your mentee to provide guidance and support.
Encourage your mentee to ask questions and engage in discussions.
Provide feedback and constructive criticism to help them grow.

Review Economic Development Concepts

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Strengthen your foundation by revisiting key economic development concepts that provide a context for understanding structural transformation and its implications.

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Review textbooks or online resources on economic development.
Summarize and discuss major theories and models.
Relate the concepts to real-world examples of economic development initiatives.

Eight other activities

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Explore Visualizations of Economic Data

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Gain hands-on experience with visual representations of economic data, enhancing your understanding of key concepts and trends.

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Identify interactive data visualization platforms such as Tableau or Google Data Studio.
Select datasets related to economic indicators, such as GDP, inflation, or employment.
Create visualizations that illustrate the data and uncover patterns.

Participate in online discussions on current economic issues

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Engaging in discussions will broaden your perspectives and foster critical thinking skills.

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Join online forums or discussion groups related to economics.
Read and analyze articles or research papers on current economic issues.
Participate in discussions, share your insights, and respond to others' perspectives.

Create an infographic or visualization to explain a complex economic concept

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Creating visual representations can enhance your understanding and help you communicate complex ideas effectively.

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Identify a complex economic concept to explain.
Gather relevant data and research.
Choose an appropriate infographic or visualization format.
Design and create the infographic, ensuring clarity and visual impact.
Share your infographic with others to educate and inform.

Solve Structural Transformation Practice Problems

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Challenge yourself with real-world examples of structural transformation, analyzing data and applying concepts to understand the complexities of economic development.

Browse courses on Development Economics

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Access online platforms or textbooks with practice problems on structural transformation.
Attempt to solve problems independently.
Review solutions to understand the underlying principles.

Solve practice exercises on inequality and economic development

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Applying concepts to real-world scenarios will enhance your ability to analyze and address economic inequalities.

Browse courses on Income Inequality

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Find practice exercises or case studies on inequality and economic development.
Analyze the data and identify key trends.
Apply economic theories and models to explain the observed patterns.
Propose policy recommendations to address inequalities.

Participate in economic case competitions or hackathons

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Competitions simulate real-world challenges and provide opportunities to apply your knowledge in practical settings.

Browse courses on Policy Analysis

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Identify relevant economic case competitions or hackathons.
Form a team or collaborate with others.
Analyze the case or problem statement.
Develop innovative solutions and prepare your presentation.
Participate in the competition and present your findings.

Develop a Policy Proposal for Informal Employment

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Synthesize your understanding of informal employment by proposing innovative policy initiatives that promote decent work and support inclusive economic growth.

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Research best practices in regulating and supporting informal employment.
Identify target groups and specific challenges within the informal economy.
Propose evidence-based policy recommendations that address key issues.
Articulate the expected impact and potential benefits of the proposed policies.

Write a policy brief on a specific economic development issue

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Writing a policy brief will help you synthesize your knowledge and develop evidence-based policy recommendations.

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Choose a specific economic development issue to focus on.
Research and analyze relevant data, literature, and case studies.
Develop a clear policy statement and justify your recommendations.
Write a concise and well-structured policy brief.
Share your policy brief with policymakers, stakeholders, or the public.

Career center

Learners who complete Decent work and economic growth: Achieving SDG 8 will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Economist

Economists study how societies produce, distribute, and consume goods and services. This course provides an in-depth look at the latest UNU-WIDER research and shares insights that can support policymaking during the process of structural transformation, which is an important area of study for economists. The course covers topics such as new pathways of structural transformation, the informal economy, the developer's dilemma, and the job ladder. This knowledge can help economists develop policies that promote sustainable and equitable economic development while creating opportunities for decent work.

See salaries and explore the career path for Economist

Development Specialist

Development specialists work to improve the economic and social conditions of developing countries. This course provides insights into the different pathways available in developing economies for progress towards achieving SDG 8, which is a key goal for development specialists. The course covers topics such as new pathways of structural transformation, the informal economy, the developer's dilemma, and the job ladder. This knowledge can help development specialists design and implement programs that promote sustainable and equitable economic development while creating opportunities for decent work.

See salaries and explore the career path for Development Specialist

Policy Analyst

Policy analysts research and analyze public policies to make recommendations for improvements. This course provides an in-depth look at the latest UNU-WIDER research and shares insights that can support policymaking during the process of structural transformation. The course covers topics such as new pathways of structural transformation, the informal economy, the developer's dilemma, and the job ladder. This knowledge can help policy analysts develop policies that promote sustainable and equitable economic development while creating opportunities for decent work.

See salaries and explore the career path for Policy Analyst

International Development Consultant

International development consultants provide advice and assistance to governments and organizations working to improve the economic and social conditions of developing countries. This course provides insights into the different pathways available in developing economies for progress towards achieving SDG 8, which is a key goal for international development consultants. The course covers topics such as new pathways of structural transformation, the informal economy, the developer's dilemma, and the job ladder. This knowledge can help international development consultants design and implement programs that promote sustainable and equitable economic development while creating opportunities for decent work.

See salaries and explore the career path for International Development Consultant

Sustainable Development Manager

Sustainable development managers develop and implement plans to ensure that businesses operate in a way that minimizes their environmental impact and maximizes their social and economic benefits. This course provides insights into the different pathways available in developing economies for progress towards achieving SDG 8, which is a key goal for sustainable development managers. The course covers topics such as new pathways of structural transformation, the informal economy, the developer's dilemma, and the job ladder. This knowledge can help sustainable development managers develop and implement plans that promote sustainable and equitable economic development while creating opportunities for decent work.

See salaries and explore the career path for Sustainable Development Manager

Social Entrepreneur

Social entrepreneurs use business principles to address social and environmental problems. This course provides insights into the different pathways available in developing economies for progress towards achieving SDG 8, which is a key goal for social entrepreneurs. The course covers topics such as new pathways of structural transformation, the informal economy, the developer's dilemma, and the job ladder. This knowledge can help social entrepreneurs develop and implement businesses that promote sustainable and equitable economic development while creating opportunities for decent work.

See salaries and explore the career path for Social Entrepreneur

Urban Planner

Urban planners develop plans for the development and use of land in urban areas. This course provides insights into the different pathways available in developing economies for progress towards achieving SDG 8, which is a key goal for urban planners. The course covers topics such as new pathways of structural transformation, the informal economy, the developer's dilemma, and the job ladder. This knowledge can help urban planners develop and implement plans that promote sustainable and equitable economic development while creating opportunities for decent work.

See salaries and explore the career path for Urban Planner

Public Administrator

Public administrators work in government agencies to implement public policies and programs. This course provides an in-depth look at the latest UNU-WIDER research and shares insights that can support policymaking during the process of structural transformation. The course covers topics such as new pathways of structural transformation, the informal economy, the developer's dilemma, and the job ladder. This knowledge can help public administrators develop and implement policies that promote sustainable and equitable economic development while creating opportunities for decent work.

See salaries and explore the career path for Public Administrator

Nonprofit Manager

Nonprofit managers oversee the operations of nonprofit organizations. This course provides insights into the different pathways available in developing economies for progress towards achieving SDG 8, which is a key goal for nonprofit managers. The course covers topics such as new pathways of structural transformation, the informal economy, the developer's dilemma, and the job ladder. This knowledge can help nonprofit managers develop and implement programs that promote sustainable and equitable economic development while creating opportunities for decent work.

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Human Resources Manager

Human resources managers oversee the recruitment, hiring, and development of employees. This course provides insights into the different pathways available in developing economies for progress towards achieving SDG 8, which is a key goal for human resources managers. The course covers topics such as new pathways of structural transformation, the informal economy, the developer's dilemma, and the job ladder. This knowledge can help human resources managers develop and implement policies that promote sustainable and equitable economic development while creating opportunities for decent work.

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Marketing Manager

Marketing managers develop and implement marketing campaigns to promote products and services. This course provides insights into the different pathways available in developing economies for progress towards achieving SDG 8, which is a key goal for marketing managers. The course covers topics such as new pathways of structural transformation, the informal economy, the developer's dilemma, and the job ladder. This knowledge can help marketing managers develop and implement campaigns that promote sustainable and equitable economic development while creating opportunities for decent work.

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Financial Analyst

Financial analysts provide advice and guidance to businesses and investors on financial matters. This course provides an in-depth look at the latest UNU-WIDER research and shares insights that can support policymaking during the process of structural transformation. The course covers topics such as new pathways of structural transformation, the informal economy, the developer's dilemma, and the job ladder. This knowledge can help financial analysts develop and implement strategies that promote sustainable and equitable economic development while creating opportunities for decent work.

See salaries and explore the career path for Financial Analyst

Accountant

Accountants prepare and maintain financial records for businesses and organizations. This course provides an in-depth look at the latest UNU-WIDER research and shares insights that can support policymaking during the process of structural transformation. The course covers topics such as new pathways of structural transformation, the informal economy, the developer's dilemma, and the job ladder. This knowledge can help accountants develop and implement systems that promote sustainable and equitable economic development while creating opportunities for decent work.

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Lawyer

Lawyers provide legal advice and representation to individuals and organizations. This course provides an in-depth look at the latest UNU-WIDER research and shares insights that can support policymaking during the process of structural transformation. The course covers topics such as new pathways of structural transformation, the informal economy, the developer's dilemma, and the job ladder. This knowledge can help lawyers develop and implement strategies that promote sustainable and equitable economic development while creating opportunities for decent work.

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Teacher

Teachers educate students at all levels. This course provides insights into the different pathways available in developing economies for progress towards achieving SDG 8, which is a key goal for teachers. The course covers topics such as new pathways of structural transformation, the informal economy, the developer's dilemma, and the job ladder. This knowledge can help teachers develop and implement lesson plans that promote sustainable and equitable economic development while creating opportunities for decent work.

See salaries and explore the career path for Teacher