08795 - Macroeconomics

Learning outcomes

This course provides an introduction to the economic analysis of key macroeconomic variables such as output, employment, inflation, interest rates and exchange rates. It first builds a foundation to understand how the labour, money, and goods and services markets are interacted, interconnected and are influenced by changes in prices, inflation rates and interest rates. The basic framework is then used to examine how the policies set by the central bank and the government affect the economy in the short-run and long-run time horizon.

Course contents

Chapters 1-16, Mankiw & Taylor's textbook "Macroeconomia", Zanichelli Ed. 

Readings/Bibliography

Mankiw G. & Taylor M., Macroeconomia (sixth italian edition), Zanichelli Ed. - Textbook

Teaching methods

Frontal lessons, take-home exercises and problem sets. All the insights and solutions of the exercises solved in class are available on the following website: https://liveunibo-my.sharepoint.com/:o:/g/personal/antonio_minniti_unibo_it/EpXYvmKIScZGnC4o5zmAfq4BdJu9Lqsa7u45kDePHlAfmw?e=WXMIdd

A facsimile of the exam is available on Virtuale.

Assessment methods

The learning test is based on a written examination. 

During the course, some lectures will be devoted to the analysis of topical issues concerning the main macroeconomic events. The goals of these in-depth studies are (i) to allow students to acquire autonomy and critical skills and (ii) to stimulate interest in the most relevant macroeconomic issues. The oral presentation of these topics (group work) is optional: a bonus of up to 3 points is awarded (to be added to the final grade of the written exam).

The written test aims at verifying the theoretical knowledge acquired. It lasts 1 hour and is a closed book exam. It is divided in three parts:

• 3 multiple choice questions (it is necessary to provide a short motivation to the answer): 4 answer options (one of which is true) for a total of 9 points.
• Open question (formal answer to theoretical questions): 10 points.
• Numerical exercise with 2 or 3 questions: 12 points.

The maximum score obtainable by providing all the correct answers is 30 cum laude.

The grade is graduated as follows:

<18 failed
18-23 sufficient
24-27 good
28-30 very good
30 cum laude excellent

Teaching tools

Interactive slides and specific exercises will be provided by the professor during the classes. Seminars on the main macroeconomic issues related to current events will be scheduled in the second subcycle of lessons. 

Links to further information

https://sites.google.com/site/minnitianto77/teaching/macroeconomia

Office hours

See the website of Antonio Minniti