This curriculum is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the economic aspects of digitalisation, the blending between the real world and cyberspace. It explores the economic impact of digital technologies, the challenges and opportunities they present, and the policy considerations required to navigate the evolving digital landscape. The curriculum employs a variety of active learning strategies, including real-world examples, debates, group projects, and student reflections to enhance engagement and critical thinking. Additionally, the incorporation of updated content, ethical considerations, and a balanced approach between theory and practice will enrich the learning experience and equip students with valuable insights into the rapidly changing world of cyberspace.

Content

The course will cover the following topics:

1. Digital Transformation and Economic Growth
2. Globalization and Digital Trade
3. Macroeconomic Policy Challenges in the Digital Era
4. Digital Labor Markets and Workforce Trends
5. Income Inequality and Digital Divide
6. The Gig Economy and Freelancing in Cyberspace
7. Digital Inclusion and Economic Development
8. Cybersecurity and Its Macroeconomic Impact
9. Digital Currencies and Monetary Systems
10. Regulatory Frameworks for the Digital Economy

Skills to be gained

1. Understanding of the economic aspects of digitalisation: Students will gain a solid understanding of the significance of a digitalised economy, how digital technologies impact economic activities, and the complexities of the digital economy.

2. Critical Thinking and Analysis: The course will foster critical thinking skills, enabling students to evaluate the macroeconomic implications of digital technologies, data privacy regulations, digital trade agreements, and more.

3. Policy Formulation and Evaluation: Students will be able to analyze and formulate macroeconomic policies tailored to the challenges and opportunities presented by the digital economy. They will learn to assess the effectiveness and potential consequences of different policy approaches.

4. Application of Economic Concepts: Students will learn to apply traditional economic concepts, such as productivity, innovation, trade, and monetary policy, to the context of the digital economy.

5. Global Perspective: The course will offer insights into how cyberspace has reshaped global trade, economic development, and international cooperation, enabling students to understand the interconnectedness of economies worldwide.

6. Data Analysis and Interpretation: Students will develop the ability to analyze economic data related to the digital economy and interpret its implications for decision-making and policy formulation.

7. Ethical Considerations: The course will encourage students to consider the ethical dimensions of the digital economy, including privacy, data protection, and the social impact of technological advancements.

8. Communication and Presentation Skills: Through debates, group projects, and presentations, students will enhance their communication and presentation skills, enabling them to articulate complex economic ideas effectively.

9. Problem-Solving and Innovation: Students will develop problem-solving skills by addressing challenges related to digital inclusion, income inequality, cybersecurity, and digital currency implications.

10. Teamwork and Collaboration: Group activities and debates will foster teamwork and collaboration, teaching students to work effectively with others and value diverse perspectives.

11. Adaptability and Lifelong Learning: The rapidly evolving nature of the digital economy requires adaptability and continuous learning. Students will be prepared to keep up with future trends and developments.

12. Real-World Application: The course will emphasize practical applications of economic concepts and encourage students to apply their knowledge to real-world scenarios and policy challenges.

Learning outcomes

By the end of the course, students should be well-equipped to understand the economic forces shaping the digital world, analyze the macroeconomic implications of digital technologies and policies, and contribute to informed discussions and decision-making in the context of the digital economy. The abilities gained from this course will be valuable in various career paths, research endeavors, and informed citizenship in an increasingly digital and interconnected world.

1. Participation (40%):

   • Active engagement in class discussions, interactive activities, and group exercises.
   • Regular attendance and punctuality.
   • Quality and thoughtfulness of contributions to debates and group discussions.
   • Demonstrating a willingness to listen to and consider diverse viewpoints.

2. Group Summary (30%):

   • Summary of presentations and debates.
   • Clarity and coherence of arguments presented.
   • One detailed summary of the preceeding class including the reading of the mandatory text, previous discussions and own thoughts (around 1500 words).

3. Group Essay (30%):

   • Depth of research and analysis demonstrated in the essay.
   • Clear and logical structure, including an introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion.
   • Application of learned concepts and theories to support arguments.
   • Quality of critical thinking and original insights.
   • Proper citation and referencing of sources used in the essay.
4. additional social media posts or discussions on other platforms discussing digitalisation can be submitted for additional bonus points (5% each)

Grades

1: 90%-100%

2: 80%-89%

3: 65%-79%

4: 50%-64%

5: 0-49

“Students from other faculties or universities will be given a place on the course subject to room capacities.”

Contact

Ludwig List: ludwig.list@uni-ak.ac.at