International Business in Context
This is an elective module only for Executive MBA students. For Full-time MBA students, it is a core module, taken by all students.
Duration and timing: 7-10 days, Summer Term
Overview
Drawing on LUMS’s links with leading management schools around the world, this module involves a short but intensive study visit to a rapidly developing economy, enabling you to learn first-hand about aspects of international trade and business management. The module combines formal learning in the locally-based partner institution with experiential learning and direct observation of local business environments via a series of company and organisational visits.
The module will develop your understanding of the particular economic and business problems associated with rapidly growing economies. It will also encourage you to reflect on the social, cultural, ethical and management issues which arise when managing companies which operate in such economies, including the special problems facing MNEs.
On the study tour (7-10 days) you travel to one of three countries: from 2011 these will be Poland, India and China. You choose which of these countries you wish to visit, but you should note that no student will be allowed to choose their own country of origin.
The South African experience
'I've realised that to try and understand South Africa's situation, I have to try and find a new way of looking at it – our Western way of viewing the issues is simply not adequate.'
Satu Willgren, Executive MBA
In 2010 students visited South Africa for this one-week elective. Read about their experiences
Before you travel you will be given a one-day introductory briefing by Lancaster faculty, for example from the Lancaster China Management Centre or with specialist expertise on India or Eastern Europe. The briefing will focus on recent economic developments in your chosen country and will highlight some of the issues specific to business and management in that economy, for both local and international organisations.
During your visit you will be introduced to the business, economic and social life of the selected country, as interpreted by local faculty from the partner institutions in the host country. This will help set the context for a related programme of field visits, both to local businesses and other organisations.
The module carries a double weighting, which means EMBA students take only this one elective.
Assessment
When you return you will write a 3,000 word reflective paper on the whole experience, which should demonstrate your ability to stand back from direct engagement, and to see the visit in broader, more objective terms.
