This module introduces students to the area of global value chain (GVC) and its implications for different types of business enterprises (multinational enterprises (MNEs), suppliers, small, large), with a special focus on key theoretical and empirical academic publications as well as available datasets. GVCs are transforming the nature of trade, and it has brought both opportunities and challenges for business enterprises around the world. Such an understanding of GVCs is vital for managers to develop optimal relationships with their value chains partners, adapt to changing business circumstances, and make responsible decisions.
Contact hours: 24
Private study hours: 126
Total hours: 150
Main Assessment Methods:
Individual Report, 3000 words. (60%)
Group presentation (20%)
VLE Quiz, (20%)
Reassessment Method:
100% coursework
Ponte, S., Gereffi, G., & Raj-Reichert, G. (Eds.). (2019). Handbook on Global Value Chains. Edward Elgar Publishing Ltd.
Coe, N. M., & Yeung, H. W.-C. (2015). Global Production Networks: Theorizing Economic Development in an Interconnected World. Oxford: Oxford University Press
Dicken, P., (2015). Global shift: Mapping the changing contours of the world economy. 7th Edition, New York: The Guilford Press.
Kawakami, M., Sturgeon, T. J., & Ajia Keizai Kenkyu¯jo (Japan). (2011). The dynamics of local learning in global value chains: Experiences from East Asia. Basingstoke: Palgrave Macmillan.
It is expected that students will engage with key academic articles on global value chains in following journals:
a. Journal of International Business Studies
b. Journal of World Business
c. International Business Review
d. Management International Review
e. Journal of Economic Geography
f. World Development
See the library reading list for this module (Canterbury)
The intended subject specific learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
- Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the structure, governance dynamics, and regulatory environment of global value chains
- Critically analyse the techniques of mapping different global value chains through application of real-world industries.
- Demonstrate a conceptual understanding of the economic, social, and environmental implications of GVCs on developing economies through illustration of real-world examples
- Develop a critical awareness of the policy related issues that shape the dynamics and developmental implications of GVCs
The intended generic learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
- Critical thinking and capability to identify assumptions, evaluate statements in terms of evidence, detect false logic or reasoning, identify implicit values, define terms adequately and generalise appropriately
- Select, organise, develop and synthesise complex material
- Demonstrate analytical skills necessary for the analysis of problems and the identification of appropriate solutions.
- Plan, work and study independently and to use resources in a way which reflects best current practice and anticipated future practice
- Communicate effectively to a variety of audiences and/or using a variety of methods.
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