MM395-Firms in the Global Economy

Module Provider: International Business and Strategy
Number of credits: 20 [10 ECTS credits]
Level:6
Terms in which taught: Autumn term module
Pre-requisites: IC103 Introductory Economics for Business and Finance
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2021/2

Module Convenor: Prof Davide Castellani
Email: davide.castellani@henley.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

This module offers an integrated perspective on the (changing) role of nations and firms in the global economy. It serves as an introduction to international business, including a discussion of the essentials of international economics. By linking the different concepts in international economics and business, this module allows to 'get the big picture' and deal with key questions. What is the global economy? Why do countries trade goods and services? Why (and how) do firms go abroad and sell goods and/or source inputs? What are the economic rationales of different internationalization strategies? What are the consequences of international business activity for the nations, firms and people of the global economy?

Aims:

The module aims to offer an integrated perspective on the (changing) role of nations and firms in the global economy, and to serve as an introduction to international business, including a discussion of the essentials of international economics. In particular, the module revolves around the key questions of why (and how) to firms go abroad, and what are the consequences of international business activity for the nations, firms and people of the global economy.

Assessable learning outcomes:

On completion of the unit, students will be able to:

- understand the nature of the global economy, its causes and consequences, and its relevance for international business activities

- analyse how and why firms engage in international business activities, appreciating the benefits and costs of such internationalization choices

- relate firms' strategies to the bigger picture of the global economy

Additional outcomes:

Students will develop general analytical skills and will also master the ability to work independently under pressure of restricted time frames and make their own decisions on the organisation of their work. They will also develop generic skills for future employment and career development. The module will contribute not only to knowing, but to acting students sense of identity and relating to bigger issues in the world.

Outline content:

1. The global economy: concepts and facts

2. Trade, comparative advantage and competition

3. The role of the firm in modern international trade theory

4. Firms, location and distance

5. Managing across-borders

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

Detailed guidance on the main topics of the syllabus and key references are provided in 10*2 hour sessions of lectures. Introduction to basic microeconomic concepts and support on the preparation of the assignment is provided in 5*2-hours sessions of tutorials.

Summative assessment- Examinations:
One two hour examination with a weight of 70% in the overall assessment of the module, taken in the summer term.

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

3,000 words +/- 10% groupwork assignment, with a weight of 30% in the overall assessment of the module, normally due on week 1 of Spring term.

Formative assessment methods:

Formative feedback will be provided on a 1,000 word outline of the groupwork assignment. The submission of an outline for formative assessment is optional and will not be marked.

Penalties for late submission:

University penalties for late submission apply.  See: http://www.reading.ac.uk/web/files/qualitysupport/penaltiesforlatesubmission.pdf  

You are strongly advised to ensure that coursework is submitted by the relevant deadline. You should note that it is advisable to submit work in an unfinished state rather than to fail to submit any work. 

Assessment requirements for a pass:
A weighted average mark of coursework and examination of 40%.

Reassessment arrangements:

Reassessment is by examination only.

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):

Last updated: 8 April 2021