Online resources of the Scottish Teachers and Students of Economics Conferences.
Student Teacher Event 2022
We are delighted to launch the online resource version of the Scottish Teachers and Students of Economics Conference 2022.
In this series of videos and downloadable resources, we cover important topics that will interest not only economics students and their teachers but also students of other subjects, such as Modern Studies, and the wider public.
Table of Contents
Section 1: Introduction
Presenter
Paul Johnston, Director of the Institute for Fiscal Studies
Overview
Paul Johnston provides an overview of the current economic problems.
Online Resources
Section 2: Theories of Inflation
Presenter
Alberto Paloni, Senior Lecturer in Economics, Adam Smith Business School, University of Glasgow
Overview
Alberto Paloni discusses different theories of inflation, explaining why economists disagree on its causes and solutions.
Online Resources
- Slides
- Transcript
- References (see slide 39)
Study Guide Questions
- What is the CPI and what is a ‘consumption basket’?
- Do you think poorer people consume the same goods and services on average as richer people?
- To what extent do you agree with the statement “Reducing inflation should be a priority for any government because everyone’s living standards are affected by it”?
- Do high wages cause inflation? Find evidence for and against this view.
- Do some people/groups benefit from inflation?
Section 3: What is Happening with Inflation Now?
Presenter
Felicia Odamtten, Resolution Foundation
Overview
Felicia Odamtten discusses current inflation figures and government policy responses.
Please note this video was recorded before the resignation of Liz Truss as Prime Minister, and some references may be out of date.
Online Resources
Study Guide Questions
- What is inflation?
- What goods and services are included in inflation?
- Why would an increase in energy prices increase inflation?
- Why does an increase in inflation matter to consumers?
- Does inflation affect all of society equally? Explain.
Section 4: Poverty and Widening Inequality in Scotland
Presenter
Peter Kelly, Director of the Poverty Alliance
Overview
Peter Kelly discusses the crisis of poverty and inequality in Scotland, the groups most affected, and future solutions.
Online Resources
Study Guide Questions
-
How many families in Scotland are living in poverty in 2022?
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Is poverty caused by people not working? Explain your answer.
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Why is child poverty regarded as more serious?
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Is inequality the same as poverty?
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Is the rising cost of living affecting everyone the same?
Section 5: Cost of Living, fiscal responses and the constitution
Presenter
Mairi Spowage, Director of the Fraser of Allander Institute, University of Strathclyde
Overview
Professor Spowage discusses the Cost of Living crisis, fiscal responses options available to Scottish government and the constitution.
Online Resources
Study Guide Questions
- What is the energy price guarantee? Is this the maximum that a household will pay for energy?
- Why do decisions about tax rises and spending cuts affect financial markets?
- How has the war in Ukraine affected inflation?
- What is intergenerational inequality?
- What is a recession? Are we in one now?
Section 6: Brexit and the impact on the Scottish/UK economy
Presenter
Kirsty Hughes, Director of Scottish Centre on European Relations
Online Resources
Study Guide Questions
- What is a single market?
- What is a customs union?
- What is a free trade agreement?
- List five ways in which the economy of Scotland/UK is affected by Brexit
- How has Brexit affected firms which import goods from the EU?
- How has Brexit affected firms which export to the EU?
- What is meant by a Brexit dividend?