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Learning unit Demography

Excel simulation

Demographic change

Why the Swiss population is ageing – and what this means for this country.

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Updated on 02.02.2023

Latest change:

02.02.2023

Excel simulation and worksheets extended and updated. Commentary for teachers rewritten from scratch.

3–4 lessons
German, French, Italian
LCS
DH
KV
FVB
GYM
In-depth study using teacher’s notes, video tutorials or training recommended.

Overview

The unit shows a way of addressing the important but abstract topic of demographic change in the classroom.

  • Worksheet 1 serves as an introduction to the topic. It builds on what students know as well as familiarising them with basic concepts.
  • Worksheet 2 builds on Worksheet 1, introducing students to the Excel simulation and providing guidelines for working on more advanced questions.
  • Evaluation of and reflection on the answers takes place in the whole group.

Learning objectives

Competence-oriented learning goals: see commentary for teachers

Didactics

Commentary for teachers
Overview of the unit and information on learning goals, didactic approach and economic background (incl. technical commentary on Worksheet 1) as well as notes on a possible lesson plan.

Simulation

Excel simulation

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The Excel simulation allows students to test how factors such as life expectancy or immigration influence population distribution. The necessary explanations can be found in the Excel simulation itself.
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Worksheet

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Worksheet 1

Exercises as an introduction to the topic and the basic concepts of demographic change.
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Worksheet 2

Exercises working with the Excel simulation.
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Sample answers Worksheet 1

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Sample answers Worksheet 2

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Extras

Background information: Presentation ‘Switzerland’s ageing population’

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Slide set with charts for group work and with background information on the topic for the teacher.
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Video tutorial
Video tutorial on setting up unit page and Excel simulation

Additional information

Links

World population reaches 8bn as it grows older

Financial Times (15.11.2022). The article illustrates the global phenomenon of aging populations and its many implications with a series of graphics.

www.ft.com

China’s population is shrinking. The impact will be felt around the world

CNN (19.01.2023). The article addresses the recent decrease of the Chinese population and outlines its impact on the global economy.

edition.cnn.com

Why the demographic transition is speeding up

The Economist (11.12.2021). The article provides the newest research insights on why the pace at which countries undergo a demographic transition has sped up in recent decades.

www.economist.com

Szenarien zur Bevölkerungsentwicklung der Schweiz 2020-2050

Swiss Federal Statistical Office. An overview of the scenarios for population development in Switzerland from 2020-2050. Only available in German or French.

www.bfs.admin.ch

Videos
Population pyramids: Powerful predictors of the future

Credits – Demographic change

Concept:
Iconomix, in cooperation with Swiss Federal Statistical Office (SFSO)

Excel simulation, presentation ‘Switzerland’s ageing population’ and technical advice:
Raymond Kohli, Swiss Federal Statistical Office (SFSO)

Expert advice:
Prof. Philippe Wanner, University of Geneva

Translation of simulation and presentation:
Swiss Federal Statistical Office (SFSO)

Translation & proofreading:
SNB Language Services

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