What do we want students to (know and) be able to do: Learning outcomes, competencies, and content in literacy-targeted principles courses

Using the backward design model, the author of this article surveys and connects the economic competencies literature evolving from Hansen with the literature on literacy-targeted principles courses. It makes the case why departments should offer LT principles courses-which focus on higher-level mastery of a shorter list of concepts that students can apply throughout their lives-explains what students should be able to do after taking LT courses, and differentiates LT principles from existing "intro for non-majors" or "survey" courses. The article is intended as a starting point for anyone interested in exploring or assessing the LT approach and suggests options for departments thinking about integrating LT principles into their course offerings.