The lectures which take place twice a week provide an overview of the areas of interest to labour economists, introduces students both to relevant theory and the empirical evidence which subjects the theory to, largely, but not exclusively quantitative testing. The lectures also indicate the ways that applied labour market analysis can be applied to topical policy issues but these are not , in general , pursued in detail. In addition to conventional reading lists students are provided with a wide variety of web based learning materials. The seminars start in the middle of term 1 and lag behind the lectures which means students have had exposure to relevant theory and evidence before the seminars start . The focus in the seminars is firmly on policy issues in a variety of areas including working time, unemployment, work incentives, labour market discrimination and trades unions.
Students work in small teams.
They are expected to assemble relevant data and to present to the seminar group for discussion their conclusions on each policy area. Since they are expected to build their analysis on sound theoretical and empirical foundations there is also a further opportunity to raise issues arising from the lectures. In general, to reinforce the learning from seminar discussion students are given assessment essay titles which are in the same topic area as the seminars. In addition to the opportunities provided in lectures and seminars students are also invited to use email and office hours as an opportunity to ask questions on an individual basis.