| Course Name | Year | Term | Period | Faculty / Graduate School | All Instructors | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12871:[2025 Fall]IR18‐DE202 Global Studies Seminar (RE) | 2025 | Fall | Thu1 | College Of International Relations | LU WANXUE | 2 |
Campus
Class Venue
Language
Course Outline and Method
Information for “+R-Jugyo” will be posted on the “Course News” on manaba+R by September 20. Be sure to check the “Course News” on manaba+R.
This course explores the complexities of economic development through an in-depth study of Economic Development by Todaro and Smith, a seminal text in the field. The textbook combines theoretical frameworks with real-world applications, emphasizing the interplay between policy decisions and the economic realities of developing countries. By examining case studies and engaging in critical policy discussions, students will gain practical insights into the challenges and opportunities faced by these nations.
The course structure is designed to foster active learning and critical engagement. Each week, students will be responsible for presenting key concepts and analyses from assigned chapters, highlighting main ideas, and preparing concise summaries. Discussions will be driven by student input, with an emphasis on identifying and addressing complex issues raised in the text. Active participation, including thoughtful questioning and collaborative dialogue, is a core component of the learning experience.
Student Attainment Objectives
1. Understand and Apply Key Theories: Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of economic development theories and their application to real-world issues in developing countries.
2. Analyze Policy and Case Studies: Critically evaluate policy debates and country-specific case studies, drawing connections between theoretical concepts and practical challenges.
3. Communicate Insights Effectively: Develop and deliver well-structured presentations and written summaries that synthesize key ideas, articulate critical analyses, and propose informed solutions.
Recommended Preparatory Course
Course Schedule
| Lecture/Instructor(When there are multiple instructors) | Theme |
|---|---|
| Keyword, References and Supplementary Information | |
| 1 | Guidance |
Introducing Economic Development: A Global Perspective |
|
| 2 | Ch.2 Comparative Economic Development (Part 1) |
Presentation and discussion |
|
| 3 | Ch.2 Comparative Economic Development (Part 2) |
Presentation and discussion |
|
| 4 | Ch.5 Poverty, Inequality, and Development |
Presentation and discussion |
|
| 5 | Ch.6 Population Growth and Economic Development: Causes,Consequences, and Controversies |
Presentation and discussion |
|
| 6 | Ch.7 Urbanisation and Rural-Urban Migration: Theory and Policy |
Presentation and discussion |
|
| 7 | Ch.8 Human Capital: Education and Health in Economic Development |
Presentation and discussion |
|
| 8 | Ch.9 Agricultural Transformation and Rural Development |
Presentation and discussion |
|
| 9 | Ch.10 The Environment and Development |
Presentation and discussion |
|
| 10 | Ch.11 Development Policymaking and the Roles of Market, State, and Civil Society |
Presentation and discussion |
|
| 11 | Ch.12 International Trade Theory and Development Strategy |
Presentation and discussion |
|
| 12 | Ch.13 Balance of Payments, Debt, Financial Crises, and Sustainable Recovery: Cases and Policies |
Presentation and discussion |
|
| 13 | Ch.14 Foreign Finance, Investment, Aid, and Conflict: Controversies and Opportunities |
Presentation and discussion |
|
| 14 | Ch.15 Finance and Fiscal Policy for Development |
Presentation and discussion |
Class Format
Recommendations for Private Study
Selected students will prepare and deliver presentations on the assigned chapters. These presentations must include:
(1) A clear and concise summary of the chapter.
(2) Identification and explanation of key concepts and arguments.
(3) Real-world examples or current events that illustrate these concepts, supported by independent research or news articles.
As a culminating task, students will write a short research paper exploring the theme of economic development, applying relevant concepts and theories from the textbook to their analysis.
Grade Evaluation Method
| Kind | Percentage | Grading Criteria etc. |
|---|---|---|
| Final Examination (Written) | ||
| Report Examination (A report to be submitted by the unified deadline) |
||
| Exams and/or Reports other than those stated above, and Continuous Assessment (Evaluation of Everyday Performance in Class) |
100 | Presentation 50%
|
Grade Evaluation Method (Note)
Advice to Students on Study and Research Methods
Textbooks
| Title | Author | Publisher | ISBN Code | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economic Development, 13th edition | Michael P. Todaro & Stephen D. Smith | Pearson | 9781292291154 |
Textbooks (Frequency of Use, Note)
Reference Books
Reference Books (Frequency of Use, Note)
Web Pages for Reference
How to Communicate with the Instructor In and Out of Class(Including Instructor Contact Information)
Other Comments
URL:https://secure.ritsumei.ac.jp/students/pathways-future/course/curriculum.html/