Objective:
In this research paper assignment, you will conduct a comparative analysis of key macroeconomic indicators in Qatar and another country of your choice from the listed continents. This assignment will allow you to apply your knowledge of macroeconomics to real-world economic data and get a deeper understanding of the economic performance and challenges faced by these countries.
GUIDELINES:
1. Select ONE country from ANY of the following continents: Asia, Australia, Europe and North America
- Once you have chosen your comparison country, you may not change it. You must get approval from your instructor on your comparison country before starting this research assignment.
2. Research and Data Collection:
- Gather data on at least THREE key macroeconomic indicators for both Qatar and the country you have selected.
- These indicators may include GDP growth, inflation rate, unemployment rate, fiscal surplus (deficit), balance of payments (trade), and any other relevant indicators.
- Ensure the data is from the most recent year or the latest available data to keep it relevant.
3. Analysis:
- Provide a brief overview of the macroeconomic conditions in both countries
- Explain the importance of the macroeconomic indicators selected for both countries.
- Analyze and explain the data for each of the selected indicators in Qatar and the comparison country you selected.
- Discuss the macroeconomic trends, similarities, and differences between the two countries.
- Explain the possible reasons for these trends and differences.
4. Conclusion:
- Summarize your findings with TWO meaningful conclusions about the economic performance of Qatar compared to the country selected by you.
5. Formatting:
- The maximum word limit of the research paper should be 1000 words.
- Provide citations and references for the data sources used.
- Visit the Writing Centre to make sure the paper is free of grammatical errors.
6. Submission:
- Submit your research paper as a Word document in D2L Dropbox by the due date.
Good luck with your research paper!
USEFUL GUIDELINES AND LINKS FOR YOUR RESEARCH ON MACROECONOMIC INDICATORS
In addition to the guidelines explained in the assignment paper and rubric, here are some points to keep your work well-guided and focused in all research parts:
1. DEFINE RESEARCH QUESTIONS AND OBJECTIVES:
Why are you doing this analysis (research paper)? What do you want to learn from this analysis?
2. GATHER DATA:
From reliable sources (e.g., official statistics offices World Bank, and IMF). Another reliable source will be the Central Bank of both countries.
World Data
The IMF website is a great place to get Economic Indicators for any country. Find the IMF Data Mapper at the link below:
Qatar’s Data
3. PREPROCESS DATA:
After gathering data from reliable sources, raw-data need to be adjusted for differences in currency, and base years.
4. CONDUCT STATISTICAL ANALYSIS:
Use statistical tools and techniques to analyze the data.
Some websites help to provide some comparative charts and analysis by choosing countries, economic indicators, in a specific period such as:
5. INTERPRET RESULTS:
Interpret the findings from your analysis. Discuss the similarities, differences, and relationships between the economic indicators in the two countries.
6. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION:
Provide a comprehensive discussion of the implications of your findings. Discuss the economic and policy factors that may explain the observed differences or similarities. Offer insights into the economic situations of the two countries.
