We look like economists: A first day of class lesson plan
Abstract
This article’s authors present a novel, easy-to-use lesson plan for the first day of class. Designed for small to large introductory-level economics courses, the lesson plan describes two primary activities: asking students about their understanding of economics within an active learning framework and having them work in groups to research current economists. This lesson plan offers an efficient way for undergraduate students to gain a better understanding of potential topics of study within economics on the first day and connect with their classmates. This brief intervention may help improve diversity in economics by informing students about the field of economics, showcasing a variety of role models, and giving students the opportunity to begin to make connections with their instructors and classmates on the first day.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Innovations in Educational Methods
Mathematics Education and Programs
Innovative Teaching Methodologies in Social Sciences
Publication details
- Journal / source
- The Journal of Economic Education
- Publisher
- Informa UK Limited
- Volume
- 57
- Issue
- 2
- Pages
- 197–206
- Publication date
- 9 February 2026
- Language
- EN