International Cross Cultural Management
- Examine the dissimilarities in cultural systems in various societies and world regions
- Analyze the cultural impacts on international business
- Appreciate problems of inter-cultural communication;
- Evaluate human resource international management issues
- Recognize the role of managers in cultural change.
Learning Contract
INTERNATIONAL CROSS-CULTURAL MANAGEMENT
FORUM East
Fall 2007
Course Number: MGT-329408-43F
4 Credits, Advanced, Liberal
I. Study Goal, Objectives, Outcome:
Goal:
To demonstrate the management of successful business relationships between international business participants from different cultures.
Objectives:
Outcome:
Upon successful completion of the study, participants will have gained the ability to conceptualize the critical dimensions of foreign cultures, to analyze the main cultural differences, and to conceive plans for dealing with the same for their organizations' success in the international arena.
II. Official ESC Course Description
The objective of this study is to learn the management of successful business relationships between international business participants from different cultures. Students will examine the dissimilarities in cultural systems in various societies and world regions. Major topics included in the study are the basics of culture, cultural impact on international business and human resource management issues, problems of inter-cultural communication, the role of managers in cultural change, and international customs and protocol. Students will also learn to utilize the Internet for actual cross-cultural exchange with students/managers from other countries. Upon successful completion of the study, students are expected to have gained: the ability to conceptualize the critical dimensions of foreign culture(s), to analyze the main cultural differences, and to conceive plans for dealing with the same for their organizations' success in the international area.
Course prerequsites: One course in Management or basic Economics, knowledge of geography, management experience related to foreign countries, or permission of the mentor.
Knowledge or Skills Needed: Writing and Internet and e-library research skills.
III. Course Overview
This course is divided into four modules, plus an introduction and a concluding section. Each module includes readings, discussion, and assignments.
Introduction: What is International Cross-Cultural Management
Module 1: The International Management Process: Environmental Foundations
Module 2: The Role of Culture in International Management
Module 3: International Strategic Management
Module 4: Global Human Resource Management.
IV. LEARNING ACTIVITIES:
1. Participants will read the following text:
Hodgetts, R., Luthans, F., Doh, J. (2006). International Management: Culture, Strategy, and Behavior. 6th ed. New York: McGraw-Hill/Irwin.
Other relevant readings will be derived from a variety of sources and will be provided to students. Participants are expected to utilize other sources, including the Empire State College virtual library, world-wide-web resources, business articles and journals for assignments and projects.
2. Participants will attend two residencies and participate actively in those proceedings; including team-based analyses, presentations, and discussion on cases and cross-cultural exercises, critique of relevant video films on international cross-cultural management issues.
3. Participants will have access to the online version of the course and participate in various activities including online discussions, quizzes, and teamwork exercises. Participants are encouraged to stay in contact with the tutor and their fellow classmates throughout the semester. Use of the course electronic mail is especially encouraged.
4. Participants will prepare and submit: 1) three assignments on topics relevant to issues dealing with international cross-cultural management; 2) a final project and a PowerPoint presentation. The topics, guidelines, and timetable for submissions will be provided in the online version of the course and further discussed during the first residency, if needed.
5. Participants will utilize the Internet for locating relevant resources for further study and research for their various assignments. Instructions on academic use of the Internet and standards for academic writing will be provided in the online version of the course and further discussed during the first residency, if needed.
Residency Attendance Policy:
In keeping with the policy of the FORUM Management Education Program, attendance at all residencies is mandatory for students to receive full credit for the study. With prior approval, exceptions may be made through which compensatory work may substitute for attendance. Credit for a study will not be awarded to a student who misses more than one residency in a term.
Grading Policy:
Residency participation 20%
Discussion participation (online) 10%
Written assignments (3 assignments) 30%
PowerPoint presentation 15%
Final Project 25%
>90 = A
80 - 89 = B
70 - 79 = C
60 - 69 = D
- <60 = No Credit