Applied Production and Productivity Analysis D31, 7.5 Credits

Contents

The course aims to provide understanding of advanced production theory analysis in general and the efficiency and productivity analysis in particular. The course begins with a review of advanced production theory. Then we look at productivity and efficiency measurement from a conceptual perspective (set-representation, distance functions, etc.). Furthermore the course covers index theory and its link to productivity and efficiency measurement. Special focus will be on Data Envelopement Analysis (DEA) and Stochastic Frontier Analysis (SFA), the two most common methods of empirical applications in productivity and efficiency measurement.

Expected learning outcomes

After completion of this course, students should:
- Have a thorough and advanced knowledge of theories related to the production economy, productivity and efficiency measurement.
- Have a deeper understanding of the relationship between economic theory and choice of methods to measure productivity and efficiency.
- Have an understanding of advanced key methods used, such as the DEA and SFA, and their strengths and limitations.
- Be able to conduct sophisticated analysis of empirical production data, and with relevant theories and methods generate productivity and efficiency calculations.

Required Knowledge

90 ECTS of undergraduate courses in economics, whereof 30 ECTS on C-level (G2F). Proficiency in English equivalent to the Swedish upper secondary course English B/6. Mathematical Economics I D7, Econometrics I D12 and Microeconomic Analysis I D25, or the equivalent.

Form of instruction

​The education will take the form of lectures, excercises and seminars.

Examination modes

The examination consist of written examination in the end of the course, assignments and seminars. The result from the mid-module exams, assignments and seminars are only valid during the current semester.

A second exam opportunity is always offered within a short time span after the regular exam date for those students not achieving a Pass. The subsequent exam opportunity is either the re-take opportunity the week before the fall semester or the next regular exam date.

The following grading system will be used: Pass with Distinction (Väl Godkänd) Pass (Godkänd) Fail (Underkänd). 

It is normally not possible to take additional examinations to reach a higher grade. Exceptions can be made for a student with the grade Fail on any of the examinations if the examiner (not the lecturer) finds this appropriate. The task must be a minor undertaking, closely related to the learning outcome not reached, and performed in close proximity to the original examination.

When a student has failed an examination on two occasions, he or she has a right to have another grading teacher. A written request for an alternative examiner should be handed to the Dean of the Business School no later than two weeks before the next examination opportunity.

Credit transfer
Academic credit transfers are according to the University credit transfer regulations.