Kevin Schnepel

Kevin Schnepel

Associate Professor of Economics at Simon Fraser University

Teaching

MA Econometrics I

Graduate course (MA level), Simon Fraser University, Department of Economics, 2020

This is an introductory graduate level course in econometrics. This course is designed to introduce students to the fundamental tools of econometrics. The primary goal of the course is to provide students an in-depth understanding of the classical linear regression model (CLRM) and the key identification assumptions. Upon completing the course, successful students will be able to formulate econometric models, manage data and estimate regressions, and interpret results (sign, significance, and magnitude). Successful students will understand finite and asymptotic properties of commonly used estimators, hypotheses testing, identification, estimation, accurate inference, linear, instrumental variables, logit/probit, and maximum likelihood regressions. [Also taught in Fall 2019, Fall 2018]

Data Visualization and Economic Analysis

Undergraduate course, Simon Fraser University, Department of Economics, 2020

How can we recognize and learn from patterns in data to add value to a firm or to design more effective economic and social policy? During this course, we will learn to use modern statistical software to manage, visualize, and analyse data to answer real-world economic questions. The focus of this course is on working with data, on programming in R using basic econometric methods, but not on the underlying statistical foundations of these methods. [Also taught in Spring 2020, Spring 2019]

MA Research Paper

Graduate course (MA level), Simon Fraser University, Department of Economics, 2020

The objective of the course is to learn how to produce research in economics. To this end, students will write an original research paper in their area of interest. The paper can be empirical or theoretical, in any field of economics, and suited for any professional audience (academia, government, or industry). However, at the very minimum, it should make an original contribution to knowledge. [Also taught in Fall 2019]

Applied Microeconometrics

Undergraduate course, University of Sydney, School of Economics, 2018

This unit of study is designed to provide students with various topics in applied microeconomics. Estimation of the labour supply elasticity, returns to schooling, and returns to training programs are examples of topics this unit will cover. Various empirical topics in international trade, environmental economics, and health economics will also be discussed. Students will explore econometric methodologies extensively used in applied microeconomics (e.g., instrument variables, generalise methods of moments, panel data methods, probit and logit models, Tobit model, and sample selection model). [Also taught in 2014, 2015, and 2016]

Economics of Crime

Undergraduate course, University of Sydney, Department of Economics, 2017

This unit of study applies economic concepts and theory to analyse criminal behavior. This unit will provide an overview of core issues and recent advances in the economics of crime. In the unit students will critically analyse topics related to the criminal justice system, including incarceration, policing, gun ownership and regulation of illicit drugs. Within an economic framework, the unit will also consider the role that social programs and other social conditions such as education, poverty, family structure and even environmental factors (such as lead exposure) play in affecting crime and violence.

Economics of Law and Public Policy

Graduate course (MA level), University of Sydney, Department of Economics, 2017

This unit of study introduces tools to study the impact of laws and public policy on individual behaviours. We will critically evaluate empirical research produced by economists, sociologists, criminologists, and legal scholars. Topics will focus on criminal justice policy but will also cover other areas of law such as labour and social policy. [Also taught in 2016]

Law and Economics

Undergraduate course, University of Sydney, Department of Economics, 2016

Law and economics examines the economic role of law and legal institutions on the actions of economic agents. The economic analysis of law is founded on models of human behaviour and examines how decision making is affected by different legal regimes. The behavioral approach gives rise to a set of principles that can be applied widely across disparate areas of the law, and is becoming increasingly important world-wide, as such analysis is often utilized in courts and public policy forums. The unit begins with a revision of relevant tools of economic analysis. Subsequently, it studies the economics of various branches of law such as: property; contract; nuisance; accident and liability law; and, criminal law. [Also taught 2013, 2014, 2015]