This class introduces the use of economic (field and lab) experiments as a methodological tool for behavioral economic engineering, policy evaluation and policy recommendations. Students will analyze how the design of economic incentives shape behavior in intended and unintended ways and how the use of experiments can assist the process of finding good solutions to economic problems.

The class covers recent applied microeconomic research in various fields such as organizational behavior, economics of education, health and development economics. One part of the lecture will cover an introduction into the experimental methodology and its ties to economic theory. The other part aims to broad students’ knowledge by discussing the advantages and pitfalls of economic experiments to investigate practical questions in different fields of application. These discussions will be based on students reading and presenting recent research papers.

Upon completion of the course, students are able to

• identify common problems researchers face when designing economic incentives.
• review a range of important topics studies by applied microeconomists
• analyze causal relationships between incentives and behavior
• reflect upon the advantages and pitfalls of economic (field and lab) experiments to find solutions to economic problems.

Topics in Microeconomics is a course with continuous assessment (PI), therefore attendance is necessary. Two lectures can be missed without excuse, absence in further lectures has to be excused/ explained via email. 

The first part will consist mainly of presentations by the lecturer. The second part will require active student participation during the class, including presentations and discussions of recent research papers. 

Class presentation (45%)

Each student must present a paper on one of the topics of the class. A reading list will be provided during the first session. Other suggestions are welcome but should be discussed with the instructor. Presentations will last from 30 to 60 minutes depending on registration.

Research proposal (40%)

Each student must make an original research proposal related to one of the topics of the class. A topic should be proposed about 7 weeks after start of the class. Final versions (3 to 5 pages) will be submitted at the end of the class.

Peer review of presentations: 15%

Each student must provide written feedback (1 to 2 pages) on the presentation of another student. Peer reviews will be assigned so that each student give and receive peer feedback.

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Office hours: by appointment

E-Mail: gerlinde.fellner@wu.ac.at