The Straits Times; Published on Jul 09, 2014
Youth Forum
Expose students to economics early
THE world we live in is largely defined by economics.
The subject helps students to understand the world around them. It requires the use of graphs and models as well as an understanding of society.
Some economic theories may seem counterintuitive, and students may require some time to grasp the concepts.
Currently, most students come into contact with the subject at the junior college level as few secondary schools offer it as an O-level subject.
Junior college students often have a hard time trying to understand the subject as lecturers tend to rush through the topics to cover the syllabus for exams. This turns off students, who perceive the subject to be difficult, and deters them from pursuing it at higher levels.
In fact, economics is a fascinating subject - it explores trends in human behaviour and the organisation of society.
Authors like Paul Krugman, Paddy Hirsch and Steven Levitt have captured the imagination of the public with their fascinating analyses.
To truly do economics justice, more time should be allocated for students to explore the subject, by exposing them to it at an earlier age.
There has been stark realisation of the importance of financial literacy to prevent a recurrence of the worst excesses of the 2008 global financial crisis.
Getting students used to economics from a young age will surely help in this aspect.
Ng Qi Siang, 18, junior college student
Copyright © 2014 Singapore Press Holdings. All rights reserved.
Youth Forum: Expose students to economics early
(Pict source (9 Schools Of Economics Explained On A One-Page Cheat Sheet))
Youth Forum
Expose students to economics early
THE world we live in is largely defined by economics.
The subject helps students to understand the world around them. It requires the use of graphs and models as well as an understanding of society.
Some economic theories may seem counterintuitive, and students may require some time to grasp the concepts.
Currently, most students come into contact with the subject at the junior college level as few secondary schools offer it as an O-level subject.
Junior college students often have a hard time trying to understand the subject as lecturers tend to rush through the topics to cover the syllabus for exams. This turns off students, who perceive the subject to be difficult, and deters them from pursuing it at higher levels.
In fact, economics is a fascinating subject - it explores trends in human behaviour and the organisation of society.
Authors like Paul Krugman, Paddy Hirsch and Steven Levitt have captured the imagination of the public with their fascinating analyses.
To truly do economics justice, more time should be allocated for students to explore the subject, by exposing them to it at an earlier age.
There has been stark realisation of the importance of financial literacy to prevent a recurrence of the worst excesses of the 2008 global financial crisis.
Getting students used to economics from a young age will surely help in this aspect.
Ng Qi Siang, 18, junior college student
Copyright © 2014 Singapore Press Holdings. All rights reserved.
Youth Forum: Expose students to economics early
