MMM135-International Business and the World Economy

Module Provider: International Business and Strategy
Number of credits: 20 [10 ECTS credits]
Level:7
Terms in which taught: Spring term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2018/9

Email: davide.castellani@henley.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

This module focuses on the economic analysis firms' decision to engage in international business activity, including the choice to become an exporter or a multinational enterprise, and the economic effects of these choices on the home and host countries.

Aims:

This module focuses on issues relating to the role of international business activities in the world economy. It will review the economic theory and the empirical evidence relating to the firms' decision to engage in international business activity, including the choice to become exporters, multinational enterprises and engage in Global Value Chains. Finally, the module will address the economic effects of international business activities on home and host countries.

Assessable learning outcomes:

On completion of the unit students should be able to:

• Understand the economic rationales of different international business activities

• Appreciate the costs and benefits of different types of business activities on countries and firms

• Develop the ability to collect, analyse and interpret economic data

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.

Outline content:

1. The world economy and international business activity: facts and measures


2. Comparative advantages and international trade


3. Firms in international trade


4. The costs of international business activities


5. The role of distance in international business


6. Home and host country effects of international business activities

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 60% in the overall assessment of the module, taken in the Summer term.

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

A 3,000 words (excluding cover page, tables, figures and references, 10% excess allowed) group assignment due in week 34. The group assignment has a weight of 40% in the overall assessment of the module.

Formative assessment methods:

Formative feedback provided on a 1,000 words outline of group assignment due in week 28.

Penalties for late submission:
Penalties for late submission on this module are in accordance with the University policy. Please refer to page 5 of the Postgraduate Guide to Assessment for further information: http://www.reading.ac.uk/internal/exams/student/exa-guidePG.aspx

Assessment requirements for a pass:

A weighted average mark of coursework and examination of 50%. 

Reassessment arrangements:

By examination only (coursework will not be included in the re-assessment) in September.

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):

Last updated: 20 April 2018