This module is not currently running in 2021 to 2022.
This module provides a critical introduction to the main theories and debates in International Business and uses these theoretical lenses to explain core phenomena in international business.
• Explaining international economic transactions (trade theories, national competitiveness)
• Explaining the existence of MNEs (internalisation theory, eclectic theory, monopolistic advantages)
• Explaining the coevolution of environment and MNEs (institutional theory, resource dependence theory, evolutionary theory, investment development path, product life cycle theory)
• Explaining the growth and decline of MNEs (stages model, network theory, market entry/expansion modes, transaction cost theory)
Lectures 11
Seminars 11
Independent study 128
Total hours 150
Examination (2 hours, unseen) 70%
Individual essay (2,500 words) 30%
Daniels, J.D. and Radebaugh, L.D. (2013) International Business: Environments and Operations, 14th Edition, Pearson Prentice Hall, Upper Saddle River.
Ball, D.A. and McCulloch W.H. (2012) International Business: The Challenge of Global Competition, 13th Edition, Irwin/ McGraw-Hill, London
Dunning, J. and Lundan, S. M. (2008) Multinational Enterprises and the global economy, Edward Elgar: Cheltenham.
Buckley, P. and Casson, M. (2002). The Future of the Multinational Enterprise, Palgrave: Basingstoke
Ghoshal, S. and Westney, D. E. (2005)
Organization Theory and the Multinational Corporation, 2nd edition, Palgrave: Basingstoke
See the library reading list for this module (Canterbury)
By the end of this module, students will be able to:
11.1 Evaluate key theories explaining the core issues in international business
11.2 Critically apply key theories in understanding historical and contemporary issues in international business and apply them to practice
11.3 Evaluate alternative explanations for core phenomena in international
business
11.4 Critically analyse why firms engage in international operations from a theoretical perspective
11.5 Critically analyse the growth and decline of multinational operations over time, accounting for the role of the environment
12. The intended generic learning outcomes
By the end of this module, students will be able to demonstrate:
12.1 The ability to present a logical case/argument
12.2 The ability to plan work, study independently and use relevant resources
12.3 The ability to structure and develop appropriate and effective communications, critically and self-critically, orally and in writing
12.4 The ability to receive and use criticism and advice so as to learn from others
12.5 The ability to produce work in appropriate formats, demonstrating an
understanding of academic conventions
12.6 The ability to inform decision making by theoretical developments
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