Learning labor economics through narrative interviews on the work that people do

Abstract

I implement in a labor economics course a project-based assignment involving narrative interviews on the work that people do. Through experiential learning, students investigate how social, political, and economic forces shape the evolution of an occupation. Students apply one or more of the three neoclassical models — the neoclassical model of labor-leisure choice, the neoclassical model of labor demand, and the neoclassical model of the labor market — to an occupation to explain why it is in decline. Furthermore, students hone their social skills through collaborating with their groupmates, conducting narrative interviews with strangers, and delivering a TED-style talk to their classmates. I draw on student presentations and reflections to demonstrate learning outcomes.