Assignment 2. Individual 2000-word (+/-10%) Essay addressing a key IB topic (70% of overall mark)
The final assessment for the Globalisation & Internationalisation module is an essay to be individually prepared and submitted. You are required to answer ONE of the set questions below. It may appear that the questions are all very specific, but successful answering and certainly for higher grades will require the appreciation, if not the application, of content from across the module, so proceed with due care. See the last section for further guidance on presentation. The questions are as follows:
1. Swedish firms often develop their international operations in small steps, rather than by making large foreign production investments at single points in time. Typically, firms start exporting to a country via an agent, later establish a sales subsidiary, and eventually, in some cases, begin production in the host country (Johanson & Vahlne, 1977, p. 23). Explain whether the Uppsala Model was ever universal, and whether it is relevant today.
2. In 1995 Ruigrok and van Tulder argued that of the largest one hundred core firms in the world, not one is truly global, footloose or borderless. Assess their contention, and consider whether it is valid more than 20 years later.
3. Mr Trump is unusual in his aggressively protectionist tone. But in many ways he is behind the times. Multinational companies, the agents behind global integration, were already in retreat well before the populist revolts of 2016 (Economist, 4 February 2017). Discuss.
4. In 2005 ONeill argued, as a central feature of our popular so-called BRICs analysis, the big emerging market nations of Brazil, Russia, India, and China, as well as some others are highly likely to continue to attract substantial foreign direct investment and other long-term capital inflows so long as globalisation generally continues (Financial Times, 22 April 2005). Assess ONeills statement in the light of what happened since 2005.
5. Explain the endurance and influence of Hofstedes dimensions approach to culture.
6. According to a report issued by Centre for Economics and Business Research (CEBR, World Economic League Table 2021) China will overtake the United States to become the worlds biggest economy in 2028. Discuss the possible challenges that China faces in its trajectory towards becoming a world economic superpower.
Marking Criteria:
Knowledge & Understanding of the Subject (30%): Excellent knowledge and understanding of the main concepts and key theories/ concepts related to the subject area. Clear awareness of the limitations of the knowledge base;
Cognitive and Professional Skills (40%): Thoroughly logical work, well-structured, supported by judiciously selected and evaluated evidence. High-quality and thought-provoking analysis developed independently. Ability to investigate contradictory information and identify reasons for contradictions. Strong conclusions. Can communicate professionally and confidently in a range of formats, at a high standard appropriate for graduate-level employment.
Research and Academic Skills (30%): Excellent knowledge of research-informed literature embedded in the work. Consistent analysis and evaluation of sources. High-level academic skills consistently applied, including accurate and consistent use of academic conventions.
Format and general guidance:
Stick to the word limit (+/-10%). The limits exclude tables, figures, diagrams, and the list of references, but includes in-text citations.
Appendices are not necessary, unless for example you want to show data that cannot be presented as a simple in-text table.
As a rule, include all content in the main document.
Please follow the Business Schools APA referencing style.
You are very welcome to include tables and diagrams in the main body of your work, so long as they add something to your discussion. Your documents should have page numbers, be in either a 12 or 11 point typeface, and have 1.5 line spacing.
Remember to number your tables / figures as well.
Use the order calculator below and get started! Contact our live support team for any assistance or inquiry.
[order_calculator]