ECON1588 Explore TWO significant societal problems assigned from a list of problems discussed in class between weeks 7 and 12: Diverse perspective on the world economy Assignment, RMIT, Singapore, Singapore

In this assessment task, you are required to:

• Explore TWO significant societal problems assigned from a list of problems discussed in class between weeks 7 and 12 and write a report (policy brief) to inform policymakers and provide expert opinion critically evaluating competing economic perspectives. (2000 – 2500 words). The report should:
  • Identify current key challenges relating to your two topic areas. (This can be from an International, National or Local context)
  • Present competing perspectives on how to address the identified challenges.
  • Recommend a given path supporting your argument with research.
• In your report, include a final reflection on the selection of your two significant societal problems. (500 – 1000 words) The final reflection should include:
  • What is your opinion of this concept/topic?
  • What is the relevance/application of this topic in the broader context of your study
  • What questions did this topic raise for you that makes you curious and motivates you to explore more?
  • What challenges did you experience when engaging with this assessment task?

The topics from weeks 7 – 12 that are policy-relevant concerns relating to: 

• The environment
• Inequality (of any sort – income, gender, energy, etc.)
• Technological progress
• International trade and globalisation
• (Economic) pathways to achieving health, happiness and well-being
• Governance

Your challenge is to demonstrate your understanding of multiple perspectives yet to identify one perspective (Economic school of thought) that you mostly closely identify with as a solution to the stated problem. You will be required to defend your position by drawing on the key principles /constructs of the perspective.

Your report will take the form of a policy brief designed to inform policymakers (and stakeholders) concisely about multiple economic pathways to solving societal problems, challenges or objectives relating to two of the topics listed above. Importantly you will also have to present (in written format) your “expert” perspective on the matter.

This task allows students to apply what they have learnt from the previous weekly reflective assessment by using the different perspectives to try and solve real-world problems.

The purpose of this assessment is to demonstrate an ability to critically evaluate the insights proposed by different perspectives (schools of thought) relating to the development of policy that may best solve some of the major societal issues/challenges, such as those outlined in the sustainable development goals.

The report is to be based on class readings, video presentations and discussions, in addition to peer-reviewed literature that you have sourced for yourself through literature and database searches; that is: peer-reviewed journal articles, papers, books, etc. The concept maps and reflections developed in Assessment 1 will also prove very useful when identifying the key concepts focused on by the different schools of thought.  Content on Canvas and Reading lists published can also be used to help with your report.