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| Course Name |
| Understanding Globalization: Preparing for the 21st Century |
Contact Hours: 10 |
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| Course Description |
Globalization is the process of integrating national economies, political structures, and cultures into a single, world-wide, interdependent system.
In this course we will explore the basics of Globalization: what it is and how to understand it as an economic, political and a cultural phenomenon.
This self-paced course examines both sides of the Globalization debate in a unique, interactive learning environment.
The course includes:
- 40 learning modules
- 110 short question/answer exercises
- Links to online resources and databases
- Online quizzes and final exam
- Discussion Board
Modules cover a single topic. Each module uses 2-3 question/answer exercises designed to facilitate learning. Exercises involve data gathering, chart making, research, readings, and links to other sites. Modules take 5 - 20 minutes to complete. The discussion board allows you to share your ideas with other students.
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| Outcome |
Upon completion of the course the student will be conversant with the basics of the debate on Globalization. The course is designed to bring the student "up to speed" on the fundamentals of this important topic.
The student will learn the following:
- Why critics argue that global economic expansion creates poverty in many countries
- Why the U.N., WTO, and IMF are controversial
- How to define, understand, and use basic concepts in global economics such as:
Comparative Advantage
Trade Deficit
Exchange Rate
GDP, GNP and Income per Capita
- How to understand the fundamental economic issues related to Globalization, including:
Outsourcing
Tariffs and Protectionism
Policies of the IMF
Free Trade Associations: NAFTA
- How to understand basic arguments on political and cultural issues, such as:
Human Rights
Cosmopolitanism
Nationalism
In addition to factual knowledge in the areas listed above, the student will learn researching, communication, and thinking skills. |
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| Assessment |
Assessment includes:
- Facilitator reviews of student questions and comments on Discussion Board
- Continuous student self-assessment using question/answer exercises
- Online multiple-choice quizzes
- Final exam (objective, multiple-choice questions)
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| Outline |
1. Introduction: What is Globalization?
Impressions
Definitions
Causes
Global Profiles of Dow 30
Unequal Economic Expansion
Culture Wars
Global Moral Values
World Government
Current Governing Organizations
Introduction: Quiz
2. Economic Aspects
2.1 Definitions and Concepts
Absolute Advantage
Comparative Advantage
Trade Balance - Is a Trade Deficit Bad?
Economics: Short Quiz 1
Interest Rates
Exchange Rates
National Debt and Foreign Borrowing
International Capital Flows
GDP, GNP and Income per Capita
The Formula: How to Measure GDP
Economics: Short Quiz 2
2.2 Fact Gathering
What Are the Disparities in Global Incomes?
2.3 Issues
Does Globalization mean that Countries Compete?
Outsourcing: Do Sweatshops Hurt Developing Countries?
Are tariffs justified?
Structure and Policies of the IMF
Structure and Policies of the WTO
Stiglitz's Critique of the IMF: Does the IMF cause poverty?
Do Free Trade Associations Work?
The Example of NAFTA
A Skeptical View
What Causes Economic Development?
3. Political Aspects
Foundations of Freedom
Increasing Freedom and Democracy
The Case for World Government
The Disappearance of Borders: Mexico/USA
Short Quiz
4. Cultural Aspects
McDonald's
Religious Symbols: The Headscarf Ban
Capitalism and Values
The End of Nationalism
Global Consciousness
Universal Rights
5. Personal Aspects: What Does This Mean To Me?
What is My Future?
Personality Traits
The New Management
Final Exam |
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