Econ-202 - Microeconomics - Rebecca Acosta

Course:	Microeconomics
Professor:	Rebecca Acosta
Email:	rebecca.acosta@canyons.edu
Format:	Online
Course Length:	16 Week

Introduction

Hi, I'm Dr. Acosta. I have a Ph.D. in Economics from UCLA. Along with teaching, I do economic consulting in litigation and utility regulation. I previously worked in the economics analysis branch of the U.S. Census Bureau. I incorporate real-life applications from current events and my personal work experiences to the principles you will learn in this class. Please, don't be afraid to ask any question--I'm here to help you learn.

What is Microeconomics?

Microeconomics is the study of how individuals and business make decisions. Why do people choose to purchase something over another thing; or buy something at one price, but not another? Why do different people make different decisions? Do people always make the best decisions? How do companies decide how much of something to sell and at what price? How do events and government policies affect decisions by companies and individuals? We will be touching on all of these issues in this class.

Applying Microeconomics to the "Real World"

While we will be looking at fairly simplistic models of these decisions in this introductory class, these models will still be very useful in explaining the world around us. I encourage you to keep your eyes open for real-world examples of the principles we learn. They are all around. Our discussions will point out how economics can be used to understand these events and predict what implications may be.

Course Description

What is Microeconomics?

Applying Microeconomics to the "Real World"

What to Expect in this Course

What to Expect in this Course:

Assignments and Exams: Topics will be grouped into 8 modules, which are typically 2 weeks long. For each module, there will be textbook readings, lectures on ZOOM, a homework assignment and a discussion assignment on Canvas. The lectures will focus on working through problems applying the concepts covered in the text, as well as discussing current topics related to the class. Students are encouraged to participate and ask questions at these Zoom sessions. These will be recorded for those who cannot attend live or to use as review. The homework assignments will help to cement your understanding of the topics covered. There will also be a discussion on Canvas that will require an initial post and responses to other students. Discussion will focus on applying microeconomic concepts and analysis to current topics. There will be three tests covering topics learned in a portion of class (indicated in schedule) and a final that will be cumulative over all topics covered through the term.

As far as technology, you will need regular access to a reliable computer with stable, high-speed internet connection. This can be either a personal computer, a computer in the COC library or in the TLC, or at a public library computer. You will need to be familiar with Canvas. The Chrome browser seems to work best for Canvas quizzes and exams. You will need to be able to read .pdf files (Adobe Acrobat is the most common program). Some sort of word processing program may be helpful for the homework assignments. You will also need to access Zoom for the lectures and office hours -- you can follow links in the Canvas course for this.

Types of Assessments

Assessments: For each of the eight modules, there will be a written homework assignment (a mix of writing, calculations, graphing, multiple choice) and a discussion that will connect economic principles learned to current topics. There will be three tests covering topics learned in a portion of class (indicated in schedule) and a final that will be cumulative over all topics covered through the term.

Textbook Information

For this class, you can pick one of two options for learning the material: videos (Thinkwell) or traditional text (Arnold). The majority of my previous online students have preferred the videos, but I know that some prefer to read. Therefore, you have the option to use a regular textbook instead of the videos. You do NOT need both! Both options cover the same basic material (though the book has more interesting side-readings showing application of the concepts). I'll give both the video and text chapter assignments in the module overviews.

Thinkwell

Thinkwell is a collection of lessons in short (5-10 minute) video form. There are also transcripts and notes for easy review and some practice problems (not graded). You can access it through the Canvas course under the Thinkwell Content tab. Buy the access code at the COC bookstore and then click on the Thinkwell Content tab. Click the button to buy and follow the instructions--you will be entering your access code. There is also a 14-day trial period available in that same tab if you are unsure this is the option you want to go with or if you are waiting for financial aid to become available (if it takes longer than 14 days for you to get access to your financial aid, let me know). If you have any problems with their website, the email address for technical support is: support@thinkwell.com

Textbook

“Microeconomics” or “Economics” by Roger Arnold. ("Economics" is Arnold's Micro and Macro texts in one combined volume.) This is available at the COC Bookstore in both paper and e-book versions. There are also reference copies on reserve at the COC Library, but it will probably be helpful for you to rent or purchase your own copy. An older edition is fine--the "current" references will be outdated and the chapters may be slightly different, but the economic ideas are the same.

Other Relevant Course Information

If there is a waitlist, students will be added from the waitlist in the order they appear on the list. Non-waitlisted students will be added only if there is extra space after all waitlist students have been offered adds and before the COC-determined deadline to add classes.

Additional Resources

Canvas

This course can be accessed on the first day of class via Canvas at https://coc.instructure.com. Log into Canvas using your CanyonsID single sign-on:

CanyonsID Username is your COC student email address (Ex: username@my.canyons.edu)
CanyonsID Password is your COC student email password

Please visit the Get to Know Your Online Classroom page for help logging into Canvas and for tips on using Canvas and Zoom. Canvas Chat Support is also available 24/7 for any Canvas related issues.

Online Education

Check out the Online Education website for more information on a variety of topics that can help you be a successful online student such as: exam proctoring, learning styles, computer skills, and tips for student success. If this is your first online course, feel free to take our online learning readiness assessment to assess your skills.

The Learning Center (TLC)

The TLC provides FREE online tutoring resources to COC students!

Academic Accommodation Center (AAC)

College of the Canyons AAC provides educational services and access for eligible students with documented disabilities who intend to pursue coursework at COC. A variety of programs and services are available which afford eligible students with disabilities the opportunity to participate fully in all aspects of the college programs and activities through appropriate and reasonable accommodations. For more information on their services visit the Academic Accomodation Center website.

Online Counseling

The Counseling Department offers appointments online. You can schedule an appointment by visiting the Online Counseling website. Counselors can help you map out a plan to reach your educational goals as well as advise you on course selection and registration.

Management of Stress and Mental Health

Often the pressure on our students is very strong, involving academic commitments, relationships, outside jobs and family pressure to name a few. The staff and faculty of College of the Canyons are here to see you succeed academically and care about your emotional and physical health. You can learn more about the broad range of confidential student services, including counseling and mental health services available on campus by visiting the Student Health & Wellness Center in the Student Services Building (across from the bookstore). The phone number is 661-362-3259 that you can call 24/7. You can also e mail for an appointment at StudentHealthCenter@canyons.edu. At the Canyon Country Campus the Health Center will be in the new Student Services Building.

Also, the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline number is now 988. All students at COC are encouraged to enter that phone number in their cells. You can call it when you, or someone you know, is having thoughts of suicide or is in severe distress.

You can also now use the Crisis Text Line: Just text "Courage" to 741741. Someone will get back to you immediately. Its free, 24/7, and confidential.

Veterans Resource Center

The College of the Canyons Veterans Resource Center is a department within the Student Services Division at the college, created to help veterans and veteran dependents with applying to College of the Canyons, enrolling in classes, and requesting VA Education or Vocational Benefits. For more information please visit the Veterans Resource Center website, email veterans@canyons.edu or phone (661) 362-3469.

Library

The Library provides live online and in-person research help, access to a full range of e-resources and physical materials that support the curriculum, individual and group study areas, and much more!

Last updated: 06/02/2022 Sub#: 417