The module explores the role of national culture in international business; the diverse cultural contexts that comprise the global business environment; and key issues in cross-cultural management enabling learners to recognise the significance of the cultural contingency. The module aims to develop cultural literacy, and provide learners with the necessary knowledge, skills and techniques to adapt evidence based decision making to the challenges of managing across cultures. To this end, students will: (i) Describe, interpret, and critically evaluate the determinants and dimensions of culture; (ii) Apply frameworks to analyse cultural environments, and identify implications for practice; (iii) Synthesise insights from theory to formulate and defend recommendations for real-life business situations; and (iv) Develop critical thinking and self-reflection skills in order to improve managerial effectiveness and cultural competence.
Global Business Environment - Positioning the Cultural Contingency
Internationalisation; the globalisation debate; Analysing the global business environment; Identifying the cultural contingency; The importance of managing across cultures.
Analysing Culture
Definitions, determinants, dimensions, & dilemmas of national cultures; Cross-Cultural Learning & Sensitivity; Methods of Cultural Assessment.
Examining Business Cultures in Diverse Contexts
Managing in Anglo-Saxon countries; Managing in Western Europe; Managing in South-East Asian countries; Managing in developing countries.
Connecting Culture, Management Style, and Communication
Cultural values and management; company Cultural styles & organisational context; The path to cultural literacy; Business Communication Across Cultures; Barriers in cross-cultural management communication.
Cross-Cultural Leadership
Concepts for Global Leadership; Global Leadership Dimensions, Leadership Style & Effectiveness
Working with International Teams & Cultural Diversity
The Effect of Differences on Global Teams; The Management of Multi-Cultural Teams; Managing Diversity in a Global Environment
Negotiating Internationally
Negotiating Across Cultures; Cultural Assumptions & Negotiation; Cultural 'Baggage'; The Price of Failed Negotiations.
Managing Cultural Conflict in International Business
Understanding Cultural Conflicts; Conflict and Cultural Dimensions; Conflict Management Style & Culture
| Module Content & Assessment | |
|---|---|
| Assessment Breakdown | % |
| Other Assessment(s) | 40 |
| Formal Examination | 60 |