74th International Atlantic Economic Conference

October 04 - 07, 2012 | Montréal, Canada

Monopoly: The movie

Saturday, October 6, 2012: 4:30 PM
Marilyn Cottrell, MA , Economics, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON, Canada
Monopoly: The Movie

My latest economic simulation is designed to be available on-line.  It is similar to past simulations and yet it moves from the usual flash model to one that is more movie-based.  Students are guided through the mathematics and graphing of a monopoly and natural monopoly highlighting the differences between monopoly and perfect competition.  The topic of efficiency is discussed as the market is introduced.  Throughout, graphs are constructed, charts are studied, formulae are set and relationships are found.  With colourful animation and a modicum of humour, students are able to review dry text and intense lecture material in a relaxed setting at their own convenience on the web.  Areas of difficulty can be repeatedly viewed and no one else need know of the learner’s concerns.  A glossary of terms is instantly available and self-testing provides instant feedback.  This multimedia presentation is meant to aid all students including visual learners and students with physical or learning challenges.  It is with ease that this computer-based teaching technique emphasizes and aids students in understanding pertinent concepts in economics and re-enforces the learning process.