W501 – International Business Strategy - The Global Context

Module
International Business Strategy - The Global Context
International Business Strategy - The Global Context
Module number
W501
Version: 1
Faculty
Business Administration
Level
Bachelor/Diplom
Duration
1 semester
Turnus
Winter semester
Module supervisor

Prof. Dr. Gerard Lewis
gerard.lewis(at)htw-dresden.de

Lecturers

Prof. Dr. Gerard Lewis
gerard.lewis(at)htw-dresden.de

Teaching language(s)

English

ECTS credits

5.00 Credits

Workload

150 hours

Courses

4.00 SWS (2.00 SWS Lecture | 2.00 SWS Seminar)

Self-study time

90.00 hours

Pre-requisite(s) for the examination
Not specified
Examination(s)

Alternative examination - Project
Weighting: 100 % | Tested in English language

Teaching form

The module is 'flipped', which means -

The following elements are self-study:
Lectures -
The principles, concepts and theories are available online.
Readings & Links - For many topics there are some additional readings and links which support the concepts presented in the lectures.
Project - Students are expected to work on a team project throughout the semester and deliver a presentation.

The following elements are classroom-based:
Concepts
- review of key points.
Worked examples and problems - Application of the module materials is reinforced using mini-cases, problems and examples.
Case Studies - Students prepare case assignments prior to the scheduled case
discussion. Students will be asked questions relating to the case and are expected to present their arguments and reasoning.
Review of examples, problems and cases - we look at plausible answers and solutions.
Coaching and support - provided for the project, the lecture materials and the exercises.

Media type

Lecture slides are in PPT format.
Where appropriate, AV material will be used/recommended.

Teaching content / structure

The module will cover the following topics:
Project research tools
The Global Business Context
Globalisation & Trade
Political Economy and Country Risk
Stakeholders, Issues and Crises
Differences Across Countries (Distance)
Location advantages and risks
Location Strategy

Qualification objectives

The aim of the module is to enable students to understand and apply the frameworks and tools which help practicing managers to develop a business internationally.

After successfully completing the module the student will be able
to:
1. understand and analyse the global context in which
international business activity takes place
2. assess the impact of location and distance on international strategy development.
3. evaluate the strategic options available for investment / market entry strategy.

After successfully completing the International Business Strategy Project the student will appreciate how to apply the IB Bachelor programme theory within the context of an international project.

Social and personal skills

Critical thinking within the strategy context.
Project management skills.
Project presentation skills.
Development of analytical and problem-solving skills.
Creativity - 'stepping outside of the box' is the essence of successful business strategy.

Special admission requirement(s)
Not specified
Recommended prerequisites

English level B2/C1

International Business Strategy is a capstone module which requires the application of many areas from the previous semesters of a Bachelor degree programme in Business and Management.

Continuation options
Not specified
Literature

The following textbooks are recommended for supporting and complementing the module lectures:

Main Texts:
• Hill, Charles W. L, Competing in the Global Marketplace, Boston
• Helen Deresky, International Management, Prentice Hall, New Jersey

Supporting Reading:
• Christopher A. Bartlett and Paul W. Beamish, Transnational Management, McGraw-Hill

Current teaching resources

Module materials are available on Portal Sachsen (OPAL)

Notes

International Business Strategy is cross-functional in nature and has a high strategic emphasis. Therefore the module draws upon basic knowledge from other subjects and requires students to take a more holistic view of business and management in an international context. 

The module provides an important insight into international corporations and international management. The module is especially relevant for those who wish to make an international career in strategy or general management.