This course introduces students to the study of microeconomic aspects of economic development, with a particular focus on households. The goal is to familiarize students with key research questions and methods in development economics. Emphasis is placed on empirical results and methodologies, requiring a solid understanding of cross-section econometrics.

The course covers both foundational and topical aspects of economic development:

• Foundational

  • Theories of comparative development
  • Surveys and the measurement of poverty and inequality
  • Causal inference

• Topical (the provided list are examples, topics may be added upon request, and dropped to ensure feasibility)

  • Poverty and poverty traps
  • Aid and cash transfers
  • Microfinance
  • Social networks
  • Gender
  • Democracy and political accountability
  • Education
  • Climate change and health
  • Environment

The course involves (~weekly) readings assignments of papers.

The applied part of the course emphasizes the use of data to analyze questions related to economic development, particularly through micro-level data from household surveys. Students will gain:

• An understanding of fundamental empirical facts about economic development.
• Insights into survey data collection (questionnaires, sampling, etc.), with a focus on household-level microdata.
• Knowledge of difficulties in identifying causal effects and methods to address them (e.g., randomized controlled trials).
• Experience analyzing data using statistical software (students may choose either Stata or R, though instructions will focus on R).

Classroom attendance is mandatory, as active participation is essential for mastering the material and engaging with the course content. Up to three absences will be tolerated, but students are expected to independently review and catch up on any material covered during missed sessions. Regular attendance is strongly recommended to ensure success in the course.

The course assessment is based on three components:

• Participation: 10%
• Assignments: 40%
• Final exam: 50%
  

   

Each component must be passed independently. The final grade will be determined by the weighted average of the three scores, based on the following grade scale:

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The course readings are paper-based.