Stefano Micelli (Scientific Coordinator), Venice International University
In the last fifteen years, economic integration has been moving fasterand farther throughout the world and there has been much discussion about"globalization" and its consequences. Particular attention has been devoted tothe themes of regional competitiveness and development as well as to the managerial implications of globalization. The course aims to frame the debateon globalization while highlighting the impacts of the international integration of markets for goods, labor and technologies on companies,territories and local production systems.
The central aim isto focus on how companies and firms can developand become more competitive in today's global economy. During the course, theglobal value chains approach (GVC) will be presented and discussed, offering to students an industry-centric view of economic globalization that highlights the linkages between economic actors and across geographic space.
This course will expose students to current theories regarding international competitiveness and will encourage them to undertake innovative, interdisciplinary research projects onglobal industries. Finally, it will provide a team project experience indesigning and evaluating research connected to contemporary global issues.
Course organization and requirements
The course is organized around different thematic areas, each developed through classes, guest lectures and study trips. There is a great deal of material relevant to the subject matter of this course, and students will be expected to do the required readings and to attend class on a regular basis. Attendance in compulsory for all students. Required readings will be designated on a weekly basis according to the themes listed in the course outline.
A field trip for members of the class will be arranged. In addition to the 40 hours of in-class tuition, Globalization Program students must accumulate a minimum of 40 hours in seminars, field trips and VIULECTURES. Participation in the seminars, field trips and guest lectures is highly recommended to Semester Program students, but is not compulsory.
Team Project
Teams will develop an international strategy for a company entering a foreign market of their choice. The
paper will be divided into two parts. Part I will provide a brief description of the country economic and
competitive environment; Part II will focus on the company strategy. Additional information regarding the project requirements will be provided in class. The paper is due on May 20.
Article Presentation
During the course each student will be required to present one article relevant to the topics of the day. The article will be chosen by the student, who will send me via email a one page summary of the article at least one day before presentation.
Course Outline
Module 1
The scope and challenges of international business
Module 2
Internationalization teories and global value chains
Module 3
Global strategies and emerging markets
Module 4
Differences in culture and their impact on international business