STEG Virtual Course - Supplemental Lecture: Human capital in developing countries - Todd Schoellman (Minneapolis Fed)

What? The course was designed around a series of modules of two 90-minute lectures. These modules introduced workhorse models, methods, and ideas in an organised fashion, as well as went over some empirics and recent contributions. The 6 modules constituted 12 lectures. In addition, there were supplemental lectures that were more stand-alone and focused on other important topics in macroeconomic development. Together the modules and supplemental lectures constituted 20 lectures, or a full quarter course. 

Why? Macro development is a small field. Textbooks are unavailable, and while many graduate programs teach some of these concepts in their courses, very few have a specific course organised around and dedicated to macro development. This virtual course helped fill the gap for Ph.D. students and even junior faculty throughout the profession who are interested in these topics but do not have access otherwise. The virtual classes were interactive, just as virtual graduate lectures in most departments are. 

For whom? The course was open free-of-charge to all interested Ph.D. students and economics faculty. Course materials (syllabus, lecture presentations, and recorded lectures) are now available on the STEG website here.

When? The course ran from 5 February - 7 May 2021, and consisted of either one (Friday) or two (Thursday and Friday) lectures a week, 4pm London time (GMT through March dates, and then GMT+1 for April and May dates).