This lesson examines the February 3, 2012, U.S. Department of
Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), announcement of
employment data and the unemployment rate for the month of
January, 2012. This lesson introduces more of the basic concepts
of the BLS employment and unemployment data. The meaning and
importance of the data are discussed. Assessment exercises are
included for reinforcing knowledge of the concepts. - Review the
most recently reported U.S. employment and unemployment data. -
Determine the changes in U.S. employment and unemployment from
the past month and year. - Determine the factors that have
influenced the change in the U.S. unemployment rate. - Explain
the implications of the employment and unemployment data for
individuals, population groups, and the U.S. economy. Current
Key Economic Indicatorsas of May 5, 2013 On a seasonally
adjusted basis, the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers
decreased 0.2 percent in March after increasing 0.7 percent in
February. The index for all items l