ME2032 Economics of Industrial and Technical Transformation 6.0 credits

The starting point for this course is economic analysis of direct relevance for understanding industrial and technical change. In addition to a short introduction to the microeconomic foundations of economic theory the course introduces basic concepts within the knowledge area (discipline) of industrial dynamics like innovations, innovation systems, development blocs, industrial clusters, entrepreneurship, technical change/transformation/diffusion, path dependence, etc. The main foundation for the course is innovation economics with strong connection to evolutionary and institutional economic theory which is also introduced during the course. In addition the course contains moments with connection to disciplines like history of technology, economic history and economic geography. During the course processes of industrial and technical change/transformation are studied on different systems levels e.g. firm level as well as on industry or technology level.

The teaching consists of lectures and seminars. One seminar may be in the form of a study visit.

The aim of the course is to:

- provide basic knowledge on the economics of industrial and technical change/transformation

- provide instruments to analyze innovation processes inside and outside firms and the interplay between the firm and its context

-provide the knowledge foundation for advanced studies of, and action in, environments characterized by rapid industrial and technical change

Basic skills (First-level courses) in industrial economics/management, e.g. course ME1300/4D1123 or equivalent.

Basic text on microeconomics (may be a compendium)

Compendium on Industrial Dynamics with selected papers

• SEM1 - Seminars, 1.5 credits, grading scale: P, F
• TEN1 - Examination, 4.5 credits, grading scale: A, B, C, D, E, FX, F

Based on recommendation from KTH’s coordinator for disabilities, the examiner will decide how to adapt an examination for students with documented disability.

The examiner may apply another examination format when re-examining individual students.

If the course is discontinued, students may request to be examined during the following two academic years.

Active participation in seminars and approved delivery of seminar/working papers. Approved written final examination (may be in the form of an home examination).

• All members of a group are responsible for the group's work.
• In any assessment, every student shall honestly disclose any help received and sources used.
• In an oral assessment, every student shall be able to present and answer questions about the entire assignment and solution.

Established 2006-05-25 

Replaces 4D1053

Replaced by ME1032.