review and estimate the unemployment rate for the United States and then report on the unemployment rate on three other states using the following website resources to access the data set. After conducting this review, students will compare the trends noted and explain reasons for the variation between the national unemployment rate and state unemployment rates including the character of the economic base, demographic factors, and other contributing dynamics.

National Unemployment Rate

• http://www.bls.gov/cps/
• Under “Latest Numbers”

Then review 10-years of historical data (small green box with trended line) identifying at least two reasons for the variance in the unemployment rate at the national level over that time period using concepts covered in your readings and additional online learning resources. In addition, review and discuss the labor force participation and the employment-population ratio over the same ten-year period and how these measures may have influenced the unemployment rate.

State Unemployment Rate

Note you will conduct the state unemployment rate review for at least three states. The following website will be used for accessing this information.

• https://www.bls.gov/lau/
• Under “Latest Numbers”

Then review 10-years of historical data (small green box with trended line) identifying at least two reasons for the variance in the unemployment rate at the state level over that time period using either your local knowledge or reasons you believe the trend would vary.