GTAP University (GTAP-U): 2021 Short Course in Dynamic Global Trade Analysis

Course Content

Background and Objectives
The objective of this course is to introduce participants to dynamic economic analysis in an applied general equilibrium setting. This course is designed to provide participants with ample hands-on training with software that has been tailored for undertaking analysis using a dynamic recursive model. Participants will interact with economists working on global trade and environmental issues using a dynamic model. The end goal of the course is for participants to leave with the capability of conducting and analyzing their own dynamic simulations.

Features of the newly developed multi-region, multi-sector general equilibrium model include:

• Recursive dynamics based on the GTAP Model (v7), including parameters by region and the flexibility of a make matrix that allows activities to produce one or more commodities
• "Twist" preference parameters to capture domestic-imported bundle shifts and capital-labor changes over time

Course participants will learn to aggregate their economic database and develop a business as usual scenario using information from the Shared Socioeconomic Pathways, which has been annualized for ease of use.

Structure
The Dynamic GTAP Short Course focuses on baseline creation, which is key for dynamic analyses. This course will be delivered in three phases of online instruction. The teaching team are GTAP specialists in data, model construction, and policy analysts. The course phases are not offered independently and the precise plan of study, with meeting times (when applicable) will be provided to those accepted into the course. When live meeting times are scheduled, differing time zones will be taken into consideration to ensure as fair as possible meeting times for all.

• Phase 1: Asynchronous Online Learning
  • Time Commitment - Participants should expect to spend approximately 2 hours/week during the online portion of the course.
  • Content Overview
    • Course Motivation
    • Overview and Introduction to RunDynam
    • Overview of GTAP Data Base
    • Overview of GTAP Models and Simulations
    • Baseline Aggregator
• Phase 2: Live Instruction - This phase of the course consists of a mix of daily lectures and instructor-led labs designed to introduce participants to the basic features of the model and baseline data. After lectures time will be devoted to discussion. During labs, participants will be able to follow instructors’ demonstrations, which include working with data to develop a baseline and policy experiments. Instructors will be available to monitor progress and answer questions.
  • Lecture Content
    • Elements of a Baseline
    • GTAP-RD and Closure Rules
    • Information Sources for Scenario Development
    • Discussion of Limitations
  • Laboratory Content
    • Setting up Application
    • Building a Baseline Scenario
    • Setting up Policy Scenarios
    • Examining Results of the Policy Shocks
• Phase 3: Asynchronous Small Group Work - During this phase, participants work in small groups to prepare their capstone projects that will be presented on the final day of the course. This entails developing a baseline and policy simulation with one of the following models for replication and extension:
  • GTAP-RD - Trade application focusing on TPP’s non-tariff measures and welfare effects
  • GTAP-E_RD - Environment application focusing on Paris agreement

Application

Prerequisites
It is expected that applicants have undertaken courses on multi-region general equilibrium analysis or have completed a significant piece of analysis using a dynamic multi-region GE model or another, comparable, general equilibrium model.

Application
Individuals interested in taking this course must apply on the GTAP website. All applications will be reviewed following the deadline. Those accepted into the course will receive an email detailing how to register and arrange for payment. Note that application does not guarantee acceptance.

Registration Rate
The registration fee (in USD) for this course is detailed below and includes all materials required during the course as well as instruction. Revenue collected will cover Center for Global Trade Analysis staff time devoted to planning and holding the course. The registration fees do not include a license to the current version of the GTAP Data Base, which is not required for the course. Participants wishing to purchase this, must do so separately.

Cancellations
All cancellations must be emailed to Ginger Batta. Registered participants who are unable to participate will receive a 50% refund until August 15, 2021. No refunds will be offered after this date. Deferments to later courses are also not allowed.

System Requirements

Participant computers and setup must meet the following specifications. All software and files needed for the course not listed below will be provided.

Computer Requirements

• Windows 7 or later
  • Macs can be used, but users must either be able to dual boot to Windows or install/access Windows through a virtual machine. Note that technical support for Macs will not be provided.
• 32-bit or higher
• i5 or higher processor
• 500MB free hard drive space
• 1GB RAM
• Administrator access (or ability to have course software installed)

Other Requirements

• Reliable internet connection (broadband recommended)
• Microsoft Office
• Adobe Reader or Acrobat
• Zip utility program