Who is Teaching Economics to Colorado High School Students?

Abstract

Studies show that perspective social studies teachers are required to take, and choose to take, fewer credit hours in economics than other social studies disciplines such as history, geography and political science. Recently, the state of Colorado has approved content standards in the area of economics. These standards define the basic economic concepts students should know at various stages of their education. Evidence suggests a teacher's academic background in economics influences their students' understanding of basic economic concepts. A survey was used to develop a profile of high school economics teachers. The profile was created to find out who is teaching economics to high school students. The profile includes an examination of the undergraduate majors, number of college economics courses, area of specialization and teaching experience.