Nudging for Good: How Behavioral Economics Can Revolutionize Global Development

EMILY: Welcome to our podcast, where we explore the intersection of behavioral economics and development. I'm Emily, your host, and I'm excited to have Charles with us today to talk about our Undergraduate Certificate in Applying Behavioral Economics for Development. Charles, thanks for joining us! CHARLES: Thanks, Emily! It's great to be here. EMILY: So, let's dive right in. Our course is designed to equip students with the skills to tackle real-world problems. Can you tell us more about the benefits of combining insights from psychology and economics? CHARLES: Absolutely. By understanding how people make decisions, we can design interventions that 'nudge' them toward better choices. This approach has been shown to be incredibly effective in various fields, from health and education to poverty reduction. EMILY: That's fascinating. Our program features case studies from diverse global contexts, which I think is really valuable. Can you give us an example of how behavioral economics has been applied in a development context? CHARLES: One example that comes to mind is a project in India, where researchers used behavioral economics to increase the adoption of toilets in rural areas. By understanding the psychological barriers to adoption, they were able to design a more effective intervention, which led to a significant increase in toilet adoption. EMILY: Wow, that's a great example. Now, let's talk about career opportunities. What kind of careers can our graduates expect to pursue? CHARLES: Our graduates can expect to work in a variety of fields, including development organizations, governments, and private sector companies focused on social impact. They'll have the skills to design and evaluate interventions, as well as analyze data and communicate effectively with stakeholders. EMILY: That's really exciting. And speaking of practical applications, our program includes a capstone project, where students apply their knowledge in practice. Can you tell us more about that? CHARLES: The capstone project is a unique opportunity for students to work on a real-world problem, applying the principles of behavioral economics to develop a practical solution. This not only gives them hands-on experience but also provides a valuable portfolio piece to showcase their skills to potential employers. EMILY: That sounds like an incredible learning experience. Finally, what advice would you give to students who are considering enrolling in our program? CHARLES: I would say that this program is perfect for anyone who is passionate about creating positive change. By combining theoretical knowledge with practical skills, our graduates will be well-equipped to drive meaningful development outcomes. EMILY: That's a great note to end on. Charles, thanks again for sharing your insights with us today. CHARLES: Thank you, Emily, for having me. It's been a pleasure. EMILY: And to our listeners, thanks for tuning in. If you're interested in learning more about our Undergraduate Certificate in Applying Behavioral Economics for Development, be sure to check out our website. CHARLES