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Cashless Economies, Data Analysis, and Research-Based Teaching: The Versatility of the Velocity of Money for Teaching Macroeconomics

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Abstract

Simple concepts such as the velocity of money can be powerful tools to stimulate classroom discussions about complex issues in macroeconomics classes. For example, are cashless societies likely or is monetary policy likely to be effective? Such concepts are also ideal for in-class data analysis and for research-based teaching. The velocity of money for example only requires values from three commonly available variables, a simple calculation, and can be analysed by plotting it on a graph. In this paper we provide a summary of the velocity of money, what affects it, and illustrate these with two fascinating cases. We also provide two assignments, including how to create data sets, along with grading rubrics. Finally, we discuss experiences from an assignment we set our class.

Suggested Citation

  • Philip Gunby & Stephen Hickson, 2020. "Cashless Economies, Data Analysis, and Research-Based Teaching: The Versatility of the Velocity of Money for Teaching Macroeconomics," Working Papers in Economics 20/07, University of Canterbury, Department of Economics and Finance.
    • Handle: RePEc:cbt:econwp:20/07
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Teaching Macroeconomics; Velocity of Money; Cashless Society; Data Analysis; FRED; Undergraduate Research;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • A22 - General Economics and Teaching - - Economic Education and Teaching of Economics - - - Undergraduate
    • B22 - Schools of Economic Thought and Methodology - - History of Economic Thought since 1925 - - - Macroeconomics
    • E41 - Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics - - Money and Interest Rates - - - Demand for Money
    • E42 - Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics - - Money and Interest Rates - - - Monetary Sytsems; Standards; Regimes; Government and the Monetary System
    • E51 - Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics - - Monetary Policy, Central Banking, and the Supply of Money and Credit - - - Money Supply; Credit; Money Multipliers

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