Dr. Ye Jiang, Dickinson, Economics
Integrating Sustainability into Intermediate Microeconomic Theory
The 2025 Valley & Ridge Workshop provided me with a valuable opportunity to step back from my regular teaching routine and thoughtfully consider how to make Intermediate Microeconomic Theory (ECON 278) more engaging, relevant, and connected to contemporary challenges. My project centered on revising the syllabus to integrate sustainability concepts into the core of the course, creating a natural connection between traditional economic principles and pressing environmental and social issues. Rather than introducing sustainability as a separate or supplemental topic, my aim was to weave it seamlessly into the existing framework, thereby enhancing both student engagement and the rigor of the course.
One of the primary changes I implemented was the addition of a lecture on externalities. This topic serves as a natural bridge between microeconomic theory and sustainability by illustrating how market outcomes often fail to account for environmental and social costs. Through discussions on corrective policies—such as taxes, subsidies, and regulations—students will explore how economic tools address these market failures. This lecture reinforces core concepts like welfare analysis, efficiency, and market correction while demonstrating their relevance to real-world policy debates.
I also incorporated case studies to promote active learning and critical thinking. By applying theoretical models to realistic situations, students can directly connect abstract concepts to practical decision-making. This approach fosters analytical skills, encourages collaborative discussion, and allows students to evaluate complex problems from multiple perspectives, moving beyond rote memorization toward deeper conceptual understanding.
The workshop encouraged me to approach sustainability as an integrated theme throughout the course rather than as an isolated unit. This integration ensures that students see microeconomics as a tool for addressing global challenges while honing their analytical abilities. In sum, the Valley & Ridge Workshop has equipped me with both the perspective and strategies to enrich ECON 278, making it more applied, engaging, and relevant to the world my students will help shape.