Mp. Shanahan et Jhf. Meyer, A student learning inventory for economic based on the students' experience of learning: A preliminary study, J ECON EDUC, 32(3), 2001, pp. 259-267
The authors present the initial development of a student learning inventory
(SLI) that is specific to economics. This approach, which is based on the
student experience of learning (SEL) literature, emphasizes aspects of prio
r knowledge in the learning history of entering first-year students. Prelim
inary insights from a first SLI suggest that on entry to university, studen
ts show considerable variation in their perceptions of what economics is an
d what economists do. From the SEL perspective, such variation affects stud
ent learning. It is argued that continued development of an economic-specif
ic SLI may result in a better understanding of students' learning engagemen
t with economics and ultimately assist instructors in better understanding
student learning difficulties and increase student success in first-year ec
onomics.