AEA Papers and Proceedings
ISSN 2574-0768 (Print) | ISSN 2574-0776 (Online)
Improving Introductory Microeconomics Outcomes through Concurrent Support Courses
AEA Papers and Proceedings
(pp. 697–702)
Abstract
Math skills are strong predictors of success in economics courses, yet we know little about what kind of support works best for students with weaker quantitative preparation. This study estimates treatment‑on‑the‑treated and intent‑to‑treat effects of two one-credit support courses offered alongside a large introductory microeconomics course at an R1 university. One support course emphasized early‑semester development of core math skills, while the other focused on guided economics problem‑solving. The math‑focused course substantially improved performance on standardized math and microeconomics assessments, while the problem‑solving course improved only microeconomics understanding. These results demonstrate the value of targeted, concurrent support for vulnerable students.Citation
Orlov, George, and Douglas McKee. 2026. "Improving Introductory Microeconomics Outcomes through Concurrent Support Courses." AEA Papers and Proceedings 116: 697–702. DOI: 10.1257/pandp.20261059Additional Materials
JEL Classification
- A22 Economic Education and Teaching of Economics: Undergraduate
- D00 Microeconomics: General
- I23 Higher Education; Research Institutions
- I26 Returns to Education
- I28 Education: Government Policy