International Business in Context
Module leader: Chris Saunders
Duration and timing: 7-10 days, Summer Term
Overview
This module involves a short but intensive study visit to an economy at a different stage of development to the UK. It enables 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 different 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 and experience one country. In 2011 students chose from Poland, India and China. Due to the student choices the MBA class went just to India (Mumbai) and China (Guangzhou) that year. In 2012 the choice was between China, Zambia and the Czech Republic (Prague) and the students chose Prague and Guangzhou. Please note that no student will be allowed to choose their own country of origin.
Before you travel you will be given an introductory briefing at Lancaster, 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. For those going to China we also offer Chinese lessons from the Lancaster Confucius Institute.
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.
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.
