Active learning ideas
Demographics and the labor market are the engines of economic activity. This topic analyzes Ireland's changing population, including the challenges of an aging society and the economic impact of migration. Students explore how these trends affect government spending on healthcare and pensions, as well as the 'dependency ratio.'
Activity 01
Groups use CSO (Central Statistics Office) data to project Ireland's population in 2050. They must identify three major economic challenges this will create for the government and propose one policy solution.
How does an aging population impact government expenditure on healthcare and pensions?
Activity 02
Students discuss the pros and cons of working for an app-based delivery or ride-sharing service. They compare the 'flexibility' for the worker against the 'lack of security' and share their views on whether these workers should have more rights.
What are the economic benefits and challenges of inward migration?
Activity 03
A simulation of a meeting between a trade union and a business owner. Students must negotiate a wage increase, considering inflation, company profits, and the current national minimum wage.
How is the gig economy changing the Irish labour market?
A few notes on teaching this unit
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
Immigration takes jobs away from local workers.
In a healthy economy, immigrants often fill labor shortages and increase overall demand, creating *more* jobs. A 'labor market simulation' where new 'workers' enter the room and increase 'production' helps visualize this positive-sum game.
The 'dependency ratio' only refers to children.
It also includes the retired population. A 'population pyramid' drawing activity helps students see how an aging population increases the burden on the working-age group just as much as a high birth rate does.
Methods used in this brief
Measuring Economic Performance
Critiquing the use of GDP, GNP, and GNI* as measures of economic growth and standard of living in Ireland.
8 methodologies
Economic Growth vs. Economic Development
Distinguishing between quantitative economic growth and qualitative economic development, including the Human Development Index (HDI).
8 methodologies
Sustainable Development and Climate Economics
Investigating the economic implications of climate change, carbon taxation, and the transition to a circular economy.
8 methodologies