As an active participant in the learning process, students explore how economic choices affect people, businesses, nations, and the planet. Many of these choices are illustrated with graphs. Early in each course, students are guided through the graphical development one step at a time, thus simplifying complex material. Students are better able to understand and retain economic concepts through this analysis and practical application of economic theory. The textbook, documentary-style video programs, and interactive Web sites present basic economic principles and concepts.
Students then complete telecourse guide activities related to segments in the video programs.
These online activities make the learning process more efficient by assessing and providing instant feedback to learners on their performance in realistic situations. The content of the courses has been carefully selected to appeal to a diverse and geographically dispersed audience. Establishing a personal connection with this audience is a primary consideration in the video elements. In one example, the video illustrates the concept of supply and demand, by tracking a consumer as she decides to landscape her yard. By following her journey from the initial idea of growing a garden, to planning and budgeting, to purchasing the flowers, the student will get a bird's-eye view of behavioral changes among consumers and retailers.