Dictionary of Economics

Teaching Business & Economics, Spring 2004 by Slater, Linda

Dictionary of Economics P H Collin Publisher Bloomsbury ISBN 07 47566321 Price £9.99 220 pages

The cover states that the dictionary has 'Over 3,000 terms clearly defined' and my students have found this to be the case. There is wide coverage thereby making it a suitable volume for all levels of study and this would also include those who have a general interest in the subject. Explanations are concise and the uncomplicated sentence structure make it accessible to students with a range of abilities. The use of bold and different font sixes make the book easy to read and user friendly. There are plenty of cross references which would encourage the student to do further research. The dictionary is the size of a slim paperback - ideal for students to put into their bags, thus making it easily accessible.

This is the sort of book which students would use as a quick reference. As a dictionary (as opposed to a glossary) each term is defined as a 'noun', 'verb', 'abbreviation' etc. Whilst this did not add to my students' understanding, it would be useful for those who did not have English as their first language.

Value for money? The dictionary is up to date, comprehensive and user friendly. I would definitely get a couple more for the department and my students have already said, 'Why haven't we got more of these?'

Linda Slater

Head of Economics and Business

Verulam School

St Albans