Economics 337 - Economics/Age of Big Data
Fall
2026
02
3.00
M W 5:30PM 6:45PM
UMass Amherst
20009
Machmer Hall room W-27
This course will introduce students to skeptical and effective consumption and production of information in the era of big data. Students will learn how to spot and avoid statistical pitfalls, irrational decisions, fake news, information out of context, and blind faith. The course will draw from historical examples and current events and from contemporary debates in economics and political economy. Students will practice interpreting, visualizing, and writing about big data.
Open to students whose primary major is ECON, ENRE (previously Resource Economics), STPEC, or MGRECON. ECON 103/RES-ECON 102 &ECON104 Open only to Primary majors in ECON/STPEC/ENRE/MGRECON until April 21, then open to all majors.