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Chris Sivewright and Oxford School of Learning

Update:

Now including a brand new collection of Case Studies that examine the economic policies of President Trump following his election on November 6th 2024. These look in particular at:

· Tariffs

· China’s growth

· World Economy

· Tax cuts

· Exporters

· Impact on seniors

· Exchange rate

Welcome to this course in 'Real-world Economics'. Here on this course we only deal with economic events that are happening now, that affect different economies - and continue affecting them.

Here are the main contents:

Read more

Update:

Now including a brand new collection of Case Studies that examine the economic policies of President Trump following his election on November 6th 2024. These look in particular at:

· Tariffs

· China’s growth

· World Economy

· Tax cuts

· Exporters

· Impact on seniors

· Exchange rate

Welcome to this course in 'Real-world Economics'. Here on this course we only deal with economic events that are happening now, that affect different economies - and continue affecting them.

Here are the main contents:

  • Trump v Kamala (Economics)

  • Case Studies

  • Key vocabulary

  • China

  • Eire

  • Russia

  • US/UK

  • Budget 2024

  • Current economics

Within those categories (i.e. Case Studies and Current Economics) we also cover:

  • Economic reform

  • The influence of the economy of China

  • The impact that war in the Middle East/Ukraine has on other economies

  • The current (2024) impact of Covid-19

  • Macro-economic policy in the USA

  • Interest rate changes

So, this is a very up to date course with the following key features:

  • Lectures that frequently include resources for further research

  • Regular Educational Announcements

  • Manuals

  • Constant encouragement to join in with discussions in the Q/A and therefore a high level of Instructor interaction.

It is through asking, answering and discussion that learning takes place. where economic situations are assessed, research done and then ideas put forward to be challenged. This is about 'living' Economics as it really is happening, right now. If you are looking for a course that is frequently updated, new lectures, new resources and a constant encouragement for students to join in and participate in discussions - then this IS the course for you.

Enroll now

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Economic battleground: trump v biden
  • Current economic situation of the usa (late october 2020)
  • National debt - is it a problem
  • Consumption in america - a problem?
  • Climate change
  • Economics of decluttering
  • The kondo effect
  • Sunk costs
  • Minimalism
  • Consumerism
  • Stroke risk - and how to reduce it
  • Show more
  • Show less

Syllabus

20 seconds introduction
20 seconds
Make the best use of your time
Economics for Beginners - pt 6
Read more

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Examines the economic policies of President Trump following the 2024 election, offering insights into tariffs, China's growth, and the world economy
Includes a series of 'Economics for Beginners' lectures, which builds a strong foundation for those new to the field
Offers a 'Real-world Economics' approach, focusing on current economic events and their effects on different economies, providing practical insights
Covers the influence of China's economy and the impact of global events like the war in Ukraine on other economies, broadening learners' perspectives
Encourages participation in discussions and Q/A, fostering a high level of instructor interaction and collaborative learning
Analyzes the economic battleground between Trump and Biden, focusing on the economic situation of the USA in late October 2020

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Reviews summary

Real-world macroeconomics with current events

According to learners, this course provides an exceptional and highly relevant journey into real-world macroeconomics. Students universally praise the constant updates covering current global events and the insightful case studies. Reviewers highlight the instructor's expertise, passion, and outstanding responsiveness in the Q&A sections, fostering an engaging learning environment. The course is noted for its ability to break down complex concepts clearly, making macroeconomics accessible and providing a solid understanding of current economic issues.
Provides valuable understanding of current economics.
"This diploma is more than just a certificate; it's a testament to a newfound understanding of the economic forces shaping our world."
"provided me with a solid understanding of current economic issues."
"Highly recommended for anyone looking to grasp macroeconomics beyond the textbooks."
"must for anyone interested in practical macroeconomics."
Complex economic ideas are explained simply.
"The way the course breaks down complex concepts into understandable segments makes it accessible, yet insightful."
"presented with great clarity."
"I especially valued the way complex economic issues were simplified without losing their essence."
"material is... explained in a clear, concise manner."
Emphasizes practical application using case studies.
"This course has been an incredible journey... particularly focusing on its real-world applications."
"The emphasis on real-world case studies truly sets this course apart."
"An exceptional course that delivers exactly what it promises: real-world macroeconomics."
"The case studies are fascinating and really help to ground the concepts in reality."
"Fantastic course on real world macro economics."
Instructor actively engages and is responsive in Q&A.
"The instructor's passion for the subject is evident and highly contagious, making the learning process engaging and thought-provoking."
"The interactive elements, like the Q&A discussions, fostered a strong sense of community..."
"The instructor is very knowledgeable and presents the material in an engaging manner."
"The instructor's expertise shines through, and their responsiveness in the Q&A section is outstanding."
"Instructor very active in Q&A which is brilliant."
"The instructor is responsive and engaged in the Q&A."
Content is constantly updated to reflect current events.
"This course has been an incredible journey... particularly focusing on its real-world applications. The depth of analysis provided on current global economic scenarios is truly commendable."
"I particularly appreciated the constant updates reflecting the dynamic nature of economics."
"I found this course to be extremely insightful and relevant to understanding current global economic trends."
"The regular updates are a significant plus, keeping the course at the cutting edge."
"Excellent course! The material is highly relevant..."
"Course is kept right upto date."

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 (Oxford) Diploma : Real World Macro Economics with these activities:
Review Key Economic Vocabulary
Reinforce your understanding of fundamental economic terms to better grasp the course material.
Show steps
  • Review the provided vocabulary list.
  • Create flashcards for unfamiliar terms.
  • Test yourself on the definitions.
Read 'Basic Economics' by Thomas Sowell
Gain a solid foundation in economic principles to better understand the real-world examples discussed in the course.
View Basic Economics on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read assigned chapters before each corresponding module.
  • Take notes on key concepts and examples.
  • Relate the concepts to current events.
Discuss Current Economic Events
Deepen your understanding of course topics through collaborative discussion and peer learning.
Show steps
  • Form a study group with classmates.
  • Choose a recent economic event to discuss.
  • Share your perspectives and analyses.
  • Debate different viewpoints.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Create a Blog Post Analyzing a Recent Economic Policy
Solidify your understanding of macroeconomic policies by applying them to a real-world scenario.
Show steps
  • Choose a recent economic policy (e.g., interest rate change).
  • Research the policy's intended effects.
  • Analyze the policy's actual impact.
  • Write a blog post summarizing your findings.
Read 'The Lords of Finance' by Liaquat Ahamed
Gain historical perspective on macroeconomic policy decisions and their potential consequences.
Show steps
  • Read the book and take notes on key events.
  • Identify parallels between the past and present.
  • Reflect on the lessons learned from history.
Develop a Macroeconomic Model
Apply your knowledge to create a simplified model of a national economy.
Show steps
  • Choose a country to model.
  • Identify key macroeconomic variables.
  • Define relationships between variables.
  • Simulate the model under different scenarios.
Create a Presentation on the Economic Impact of a Geopolitical Event
Synthesize your understanding of macroeconomics by analyzing the economic consequences of a real-world event.
Show steps
  • Select a geopolitical event (e.g., war in Ukraine).
  • Research the event's impact on global economies.
  • Prepare a presentation summarizing your findings.
  • Include data visualizations to support your analysis.

Career center

Learners who complete (Oxford) Diploma : Real World Macro Economics will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
International Economist
An International Economist analyzes economic trends and policies across different countries. This 'Real-world Economics' course deals with economic events that are happening now, affecting different economies. The course covers economic reform and the influence of the economy of China, plus the impact that war in the Middle East and Ukraine has on other economies. It also provides a general overview of the economics of countries such as India, the USA, the UK, Australia, and South Africa.
Economist
An Economist studies the production and distribution of resources, goods, and services by collecting and analyzing data, researching trends, and evaluating economic issues. Economists often require a master's or doctoral degree. This course in 'Real-world Economics' can provide a look into economic events that are happening now, that affect different economies. The lectures frequently include resources for further research. In addition, students are constantly encouraged to join in and participate in discussions, a valuable skill for an economist.
Economic Analyst
An Economic Analyst scrutinizes financial data, market trends, and economic indicators to provide insights for organizations or individuals. This course in 'Real-world Economics' is focused on economic events that are currently affecting different economies. As such, it provides an ideal knowledge base such as looking at the economic policies of President Trump following his election in 2024, the influence of China, the impact of war in the Middle East and Ukraine, and the current impact of Covid-19. By joining in with discussions in the question and answer forum, the learner can immerse themselves in the world of economic analysis, preparing them for the discussions and challenges of the profession. This course may help the analyst to assess economic situations and put forward ideas.
Political Risk Analyst
A Political Risk Analyst assesses the potential impact of political decisions, instability, and other factors on businesses and investments. This course in 'Real-world Economics' includes current affairs updates from the USA. The course covers topics such as the influence of China and the impact that war in the Middle East and Ukraine has on other economies. It is a course that is frequently updated with new lectures and new resources.
Business Reporter
A Business Reporter researches and writes news stories about business, finance, and economic issues. The 'Real-world Economics' course is very up to date, with new lectures and new resources, and constant encouragement for students to join in and participate in discussions. This course provides a knowledge base to write with more authority. An aspiring business reporter will find the syllabus invaluable, as it will keep them up to date with current events in the UK and USA.
Market Research Analyst
A Market Research Analyst studies consumer behavior and market trends to advise companies on product development, marketing strategies, and pricing. The 'Real-world Economics' course deals with economic events that are happening now and affect different economies. If you're looking for ways to better understand key reports, like those that cover exports and exchange rates, then this could be the course for you. Also, by keeping up to date with constantly updated lectures and resources, a market research analyst will be better placed to advise companies on economic reform and macro-economic policy in the United States.
Economic Development Specialist
An Economic Development Specialist works to improve the economic well-being and quality of life in a community by creating jobs, stimulating growth, and attracting investment. This course in 'Real-world Economics' deals with key vocabulary and current affairs with updates from the USA. This provides someone in the role of Economic Development Specialist with a foundation of knowledge. They will also be able to put their ideas forward and have them challenged.
Policy Analyst
A Policy Analyst researches and evaluates existing policies and proposed legislation to provide recommendations to government or organizations. This course in real-world economics can provide a policy analyst with valuable insights into current economic issues. The course includes case studies that examine economic policies of leaders following their election, in particular looking at tariffs, China’s growth, and tax cuts. By learning the key vocabulary needed to discuss economics, a policy analyst will be better prepared to challenge ideas and assess economic situations.
Public Finance Economist
A Public Finance Economist focuses on the role of government in the economy. They analyze topics such as taxation, public spending, and debt management. Public Finance Economists may require a master's or doctoral degree. This 'Real-world Economics' course may provide someone who wants to work in public finance with a solid background. The course looks at economic policies and national debt. It would also be possible to participate in discussions in the question and answer area.
Financial Risk Manager
A Financial Risk Manager identifies and analyzes potential risks to the financial well-being of an organization. This 'Real-world Economics' course includes case studies and current economics. It also discusses the impact that war in the Middle East and Ukraine has on other economies. If you're someone who enjoys asking, answering, and discussion, then you'll fit right in. This course may help a financial risk manager to deal with current affairs updates from the USA.
Financial Advisor
A Financial Advisor provides guidance to clients on investments, retirement planning, and wealth management. A course dealing with 'Real-world Economics' includes discussion on the current economic situation and macro-economic policy in the USA. This course may help build a strong foundation for understanding national debt and consumption in America. It also may assist a budding advisor in understanding the current impact of Covid-19, and lectures will also frequently include resources for further research.
Investment Banker
An Investment Banker helps corporations and governments raise capital by underwriting and selling securities. This course in 'Real-world Economics' includes discussion of key economic vocabulary and current affairs, with updates from the USA. The course covers topics such as economic reform, the influence of China, and macro-economic policy in the USA. Students are encouraged to join in with discussions, therefore a high level of instructor interaction is assured.
Management Consultant
A Management Consultant advises organizations on how to improve their efficiency and effectiveness by analyzing business problems and developing solutions. The 'Real-world Economics' course includes resources for further research, which may be useful for gathering information for a client. The course looks at case studies and current economics, including economic reform, the influence of China, and the impact that war in the Middle East and Ukraine has on other economies. It is a very up to date course with new lectures frequently added. This course may help improve ability in assessing a company's issues.
Actuary
An Actuary analyzes statistical data, such as mortality, accident, sickness, disability, and retirement rates, and constructs probability tables to forecast risk and liability for payment of future benefits. The 'Real-world Economics' course includes a discussion of macro-economic policy in the USA and interest rate changes. The course deals with economic events that are happening now, and affect different economies. Therefore, it may be useful to an actuary who wants to stay abreast of changes in the economic landscape.
Labor Economist
A Labor Economist studies the labor market including employment, wages, and related issues. They often need a strong understanding of current economic conditions. This course may be useful for the Labor Economist. The 'Real-world Economics' course offers an up-to-date look into economics as it is really happening. Students are encouraged to carry our research and put ideas forward to be challenged.

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in (Oxford) Diploma : Real World Macro Economics.
Provides historical context for understanding modern macroeconomic challenges. It examines the decisions of central bankers in the lead-up to the Great Depression. It offers valuable insights into the potential consequences of monetary policy decisions. This book is more valuable as additional reading to provide depth and historical perspective.
Provides a clear and concise introduction to economic principles. It is particularly useful for understanding the fundamental concepts that underpin real-world economic events. While not directly focused on current events, it provides the necessary background to analyze them effectively. This book is commonly used as a supplemental text in introductory economics courses.

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