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Kurt Christensen

The following information comes from the named instructor and should describe characteristics general to courses as taught by this instructor. Individual sections of specific courses will deviate from this description in some respects.

Class Format

I strive for interactive classes, but the level of engagement is up to the students in the class. To help facilitate this, I will, on occasion, put students into groups for an activity. Generally, I use a lecture format, and depending on the material being covered, we spend lots of days building models (graphs), explaining them, and then applying them to what is happening in the economy today.  I, also, incorporate news articles and current events in an economic context whenever relevant. 

Resource Use

Textbook:  Yes, necessary.

Calculator:  Not required, but advisable.  If you purchase a calculator make sure it is a non-graphing calculator.  Your cell phone is not an option on examination days.

Software:  Yes, on-line homework is required and the student must purchase a code to access this learning platform.  The current platform is called “Connect On-line” by McGraw-Hill Publishers. 

Assessment

The student's grade is based on a variety of assignments. You will have in-class homework that we do together for practice (these are called “point days”); you will have out-of-class on-line homework to do on your own; and you will have four exams.

Homework Policy

Homework is essential to passing this class.  You will have both in-class and out-of-class assignments.  There are plenty of homework points, but it is up to you to take advantage of them.  They can significantly boost your grade, or adversely affect it.

Attendance Policy

I take attendance to learn names; however, I strongly recommend you attend class.  Point days are randomly held, and you want to capitalize on those points.  Exam dates are announced in class.  Class attendance and active participation is closely tied to successful completion of the course. 

It is economics department policy to not withdraw students for non-attendance.  If you stop attending a face-to-face class (or participating in an on-line class), it is your responsibility to withdraw, faculty do not withdraw students for poor attendance.

Availability

I do not have office hours.  It is easiest to catch me before or after class.  Otherwise, make an appointment.  I am always reachable via email.  I respond within 24 hours or less.

Additional Information

By its very nature economics is mathy (a Dilbert-ism), my aim is to make economics accessible to those students who are mathematically-challenged.  The in-class and out-of-class assignments will give the students a flavor for the types of questions asked on the examinations; however, additional practice of graphical and mathematical problems (i.e., learning through repetition) will help students understand the mechanics of economic interactions.