Extra-Semestral Courses with Visiting International Professors
Lecturer: Prof. Orlando Gomes, Full Professor of Economics, Lisbon Accounting and Business School, Polytechnic University of Lisbon (ISCAL-IPL)
Dear Students,
We are pleased to offer you the opportunity to register for the following extra-semestral course, which will be held in the current summer semester. The course promises to enrich your understanding of contemporary economic issues, enhance your academic English skills, and broaden your intellectual horizons beyond your standard curriculum. Successful completion of the course will earn you 3 ECTS credits.
This course falls under the category of field-specific electives (oV) and is recognised as equivalent to 5EN381/382.
Course Schedule and Location
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Dates:
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June 9, 2025: 09:00–12:00 and 14:00–17:00
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June 10, 2025: 09:00–12:00 and 14:00–17:00
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June 11, 2025: 09:00–12:00 and 14:00–17:00
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Final Exam:
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June 13, 2025: 10:00–12:00
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Venue: NB 457
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Language of Instruction: English
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Course Capacity: Limited to 20 students
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Registration Deadline: May 23, 2025 via the Extra-Semestral Courses section in the student system.
Course Description
In today’s economy, data has become a central asset, alongside physical and human capital. Technological innovation, evolving business models, and changing consumer preferences have reshaped market dynamics—favouring those who control vast datasets and possess the analytical capacity to exploit them. Prominent examples include the global “big tech” corporations.
This course offers a comprehensive examination of the economics of big data, grounded in both theoretical literature and applied analytical modelling. It begins by introducing the concept of big data and its strategic value to firms. It then explores how the data-driven economy contributes to market concentration, business model innovation, shifts in labour relations, and changing consumption behaviours.
The course also addresses the integration of artificial intelligence (AI), highlighting its symbiotic relationship with data—data being the fuel that powers AI applications. In addition, topics such as data vulnerability and privacy are critically examined, given their significance in public discourse and regulation.
A core focus lies in understanding how data influences economic growth:
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How does data alter traditional growth models based on labour and capital accumulation?
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How is data linked to innovation, ideas, and knowledge creation?
The course proceeds in two main ways:
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A structured review of cutting-edge academic literature on big data, AI, and digital markets.
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Development of original dynamic models to analyse individual and firm behaviour in the data economy. These models illustrate how data affects economic outcomes—including firm profits, household utility, and aggregate growth—and contribute to shaping inclusive and sustainable prosperity.
This course represents a unique opportunity to engage with leading-edge economic theory and practice under the guidance of a seasoned international expert. We warmly encourage all interested students to register promptly.