Globalisation and Regionalisation

Course outline

This course analyses selected key topics in globalisation and regionalisation in the world economy. These include:

• understanding globalisation and trends in globalisation
• the evolution of the international firm and the motives of firms engaged in international business
• the process of knowledge generation by multinational companies in the global economy
• global and regional strategies of multinational companies
• international business strategies in transitional and emerging economies

Outcomes

On successful completion of the course, you should have:

• acquired some understanding of current key topics in the field of economic globalisation and regionalisation
• developed a broad-based overview of the role of multinational companies as chief actors behind the economic globalisation and regionalisation
• recognised the role of location in explaining the global competitiveness of companies
• developed a deeper and more critical understanding of the global and regional strategies of multinational companies
• learned how multinational companies generate and deploy knowledge in different parts of the world
• obtained some expertise in formulating appropriate strategies for multinational companies when investing in transitional and emerging economies.

Teaching and learning methods

First two hours (approximately) lecture with Q&A session followed by one hour (approximately) seminar, with breaks as necessary.

Coursework and assessment

The assessment for this course is based on:

Students should make sure they read and comply with the regulations regarding late submission of coursework and plagiarism set out in the University website.

Background reading / bibliography

The course content covers a wide range of issues and there is no single book that covers all aspects of the course. Each lecture has associated background reading which may include articles, academic or business reports, selected book chapters, or video sources.

We expect students to explore the subjects using their own initiative. They should scan through the readings for each lecture and decide what research will best develop their understanding of the topics. A good basic understanding of every topic is required, and a deeper understanding of some particular themes necessary for the seminar, essay and examination. In order to achieve this, students are encouraged to go beyond the recommended reading list, for example making use of the references and bibliographies provided in relevant books, reports and journal articles.

It is strongly advised that students start reading in advance of each lecture. This way, they will attend classes better prepared to contribute to discussions, and will be able to clarify any questions that might emerge with the lecturer.