In case Covid-19 strikes again, I opt for "Rotationsmodus".

The idea is to permit students the enriched experience of studying in class and communicating with the lecturer/with fellow students while keeping a safety distance. In my experience, this provides better results (and is simply more fun).

The rotation mode splits the students into two groups which physically attend classes alternatingly: the first group attends the class physically (in the lecture room) every second week, while the other group follows the class virtually online at the same time. The following week, these two groups rotate, so that the first group attends the online class and the second group will be physical present in the lecture room.

I really encourage students to take advantage of in-class teaching if possible.  However, I also accept students who opt for a remote participation in all groups.

Course organisation and technical setup: The screen of the lecturer's desk is projected on the white board for the in-class students and shared through MS-teams with the remote students. Please create access to MS-Teams before the first lesson.

The course takes place synchronously; it is not intended to record the units for asynchronous use.

Attendance is mandatory (either in the lecture room or remotely via MS-Teams) on the specified dates.

Right after the registration period ends, I will ask you for your attendance preferences (in-class rotation or fully remote) and I will organize the groups accordingly. Depending on the Corona situation, the number of meetings with physical attendance may change. Please note that this mode is very flexible and will also depend on the number of registered users and the Covid-19 related max. number of participants in the class room.

This course introduces advanced concepts of development economics. The first part focuses on areas where we find "defective" functioning in a number of key markets in developing countries (e.g. resources, land titles, credits). The second part explores the relationship between institutions and economic performance. The final part discusses more exogenous determinants (e.g. climate, location, natural resource endowment etc.).

I am a former development aid practitioner and worked with the International Red Cross (and other organisations) in Africa, Asia and Central Europe before embarking on an academic career. The course has therefore a rather practical orientation. We look at policies & practices that have been tried in the field and the economic rationale behind it.

Students will be able to understand mechanism underlying (lack of) economic development.

Two missed units are tolerated (communication not necessary, no "apology"). More than two missed units: only if the reason is serious (please contact the lecturer!)

I will give input for the first part of the semester. We will have one simulation exercise where your full attendance is required. I usually invite an expert from international development each term. Midterm we take an exam. After that students prepare presentations on selected topics.

Midterm exam (40%), group presentation (40%), attendance & participation in class (20%)

Course is held in English language.