Global Trends for Business and Society from Coursera

What's inside

Syllabus

Module 1: People and Markets Around the World

In this module, we’ll begin by examining the relationship between population size and density to the geopolitical balance of power in the world. You’ll learn key aspects of demographics (such as total fertility and life expectancy at birth) and how rapid demographic growth or decline affects global economic and geopolitical dynamics. Then, you’ll evaluate the economic and political impact of urbanization and migration within societies, and the consequences of these changes in population dynamics, both within a society and between countries. By the end of this module, you’ll have a richer understanding of the impact of demographic trends on financial markets, political systems, culture, and society.

Module 2: Money Around the World

This module was designed to give you a deeper understanding of how monetary trends and the distribution of monetary wealth affect the globe. Through close examination of global poverty and income inequality, you’ll learn critical concepts such as the Gini Coefficient and the Kuznets Curve, and how to use them as tools in analyzing the global distribution of wealth. You’ll also explore the rise of the global middle class, and how businesses are responding to the growth of middle class consumption. Finally, you’ll investigate the relationship between changing gender dynamics and wealth in the world. By the end of this module, you’ll be able to use effective analytical tools to form a clearer understanding of the effect of wealth within society and how it affects your organization.

Module 3: Global Economic and Financial Imbalances

In this module, you’ll examine the growing issue of global economic and financial imbalances. Through relevant examples such as the European Zone crisis, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the effects of global economic dynamics on both individual countries and their relationships with one another. You’ll explore trade bloc controversies, different types of monetary unions (such as the European Union), and how financial imbalances affect the geopolitical balance and global economy. By the end of this module, you’ll be able to better assess the consequences of economic and financial imbalances on nations, markets, and societies, and be prepared to respond to these phenomena while making decisions for your organization and society.

Module 4: The Shifting Geopolitical Landscape

In this module, you’ll explore global geopolitical landscapes and the global powers of the 21st century. Through examination of different political regimes—from autocracies to democracies—you’ll discover effective roles for states to play in society and its economy. You’ll also learn about failed states and anocracies, two importance sources of instability in the world, and how such instabilities manifest frictions and conflicts in the form of war and terrorism. Through analyzing the evolution of political regimes and failed states, you’ll learn the definition of global powers, the difference between and hard and soft power resources, and whether emerging global powers will cause dramatic changes in the existing geopolitical power structure. By the end of this module, you’ll have a deeper understanding of the trajectories of global powers, and be able to assess how the changes in geopolitical power structure will affect your business and society.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Examines the consequences of population dynamics for businesses and society, offering valuable insights

Explores the intricacies of global monetary trends and their impact, providing critical analytical tools

Investigates the challenges and opportunities of global economic imbalances, equipping learners with problem-solving skills for real-world scenarios

Navigates the complexities of the shifting geopolitical landscape, fostering an understanding of global power dynamics and their implications

Requires students to come in with extensive background knowledge and understanding of global affairs

Taught by Professor Mauro Guillen of the Wharton School, a highly respected institution for business education

Reviews summary

Global business and society trends

Learners say this course on global business and society trends is largely positive with a passionate professor and easy-to-follow content. They highlight engaging assignments, well-structured lectures, and a variety of resources including videos, readings, and quizzes. Students mention that the course provides valuable insights into global trends and their impact on businesses and society. However, some learners note that the course may not be suitable for advanced learners as it covers basic concepts and data may be outdated.

Variety of resources including videos, readings, and quizzes

"Mauro is an amazing professor. I completely love the videos in the different countries, with the real background and complete landscape of how that country looks like."

"This course is meticulous. A very good course."

Valuable insights into global trends

"This was a very educational and productive course! I learned a lot about the social, economic, and political relationships between all of the countries around the world."

"I gained quite a lot of insight into the world we are living in"

Well-structured and easy to understand

"The topics were well structured and summarized. I have learnt how and what to look at to understand geo political scenario."

"The course offers great perspective using history and trends in order to give good perspective for the future of Global business & society."

Passionate and knowledgeable

"Professor Guillen was fantastic! Clear explanations and interesting presentation of topics."

"The lectures were informative and enjoyable. Very well planned and easy to follow. Professor Guillen clearly put a lot of effort into the planning of the course."

Covers basic concepts suitable for beginners

"It is true when they say Wharton is the best Business School. So much to learn from this. Just pay attention and you will learn more than you hear in the video."

"This course is a wonderful introduction to a number of topics, ranging from demography and economics to capital flows and geopolitics."

Data may be outdated

"However, it is wildly outdated given the changes over the last 5-7 years."

"I think some more details in some part of the courses were expected."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Global Trends for Business and Society with these activities:

Review global demographic trends

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Understand the fundamental principles of population dynamics and how they shape global society.

Browse courses on Population Dynamics

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Read articles on global population growth and decline
Explore the World Bank's data on population statistics
Analyze population pyramids for different countries

Review geography and demographics

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Can you draw a map of the world without using a reference? Test your knowledge of the global geographic landscape and familiarize yourself with key demographic trends to better grasp the impact of these factors on global business.

Browse courses on Geography

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Identify major countries, continents, and oceans on a world map.
Research the population density, growth rates, and age distribution of different regions.

Read 'The World is Flat' by Thomas L. Friedman

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Reading 'The World is Flat' will provide valuable insights into the impact of globalization and technological advancements on the global economy.

View Thank You for Being Late: An Optimist's Guide... on Amazon

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Read the book and take notes on key concepts
Discuss the book's ideas with classmates or colleagues
Write a short summary of the book's main arguments

12 other activities

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Attend a workshop on emerging global powers

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Learn about the latest trends and developments in the global power landscape.

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Identify workshops or conferences on emerging global powers
Register and attend the workshop
Take notes and ask questions

Calculate the Gini Coefficient

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Develop proficiency in using the Gini Coefficient to measure income inequality.

Browse courses on Income Inequality

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Learn the formula for the Gini Coefficient
Gather data on income distribution
Calculate the Gini Coefficient using the formula

Analyze historical economic data

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Strengthen your understanding of economic concepts by examining historical economic data. This will enhance your ability to identify patterns, predict trends, and make informed decisions in the context of global business.

Browse courses on Economics

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Gather real-world data on GDP, inflation, unemployment, and other economic indicators.
Plot the data on graphs and charts to identify trends and relationships.
Interpret the data and draw conclusions about economic events and developments.

Follow online tutorials on geopolitical analysis

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Following online tutorials on geopolitical analysis will supplement the course content and provide additional insights.

Browse courses on International Relations

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Identify reputable online platforms and resources
Select tutorials that cover topics relevant to the course
Watch the tutorials and take notes
Apply the concepts learned to real-world events

Read 'The World is Flat' by Thomas Friedman

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Gain insights into the flattening of the world and its impact on globalization by reading Thomas Friedman's thought-provoking book. His perspectives will complement the course content and enhance your understanding of global trends.

View Thank You for Being Late: An Optimist's Guide... on Amazon

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Familiarize yourself with Friedman's key concepts, such as the 'flattener' technologies.
Evaluate Friedman's arguments about the impact of globalization on different sectors and countries.
Consider how Friedman's insights can inform your own perspectives on global business and society.

Create a global economic forecasting model

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Building a global economic forecasting model will provide hands-on experience in applying the concepts learned in the course.

Browse courses on Economic Forecasting

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Gather data from various sources and clean it
Select appropriate statistical and econometric techniques for modeling
Develop a forecasting model and validate its performance
Use the model to make predictions and analyze their accuracy

Write an essay on the impact of globalization on geopolitical power

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Deepen understanding of the complex interplay between globalization and geopolitical dynamics.

Browse courses on Globalization

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Research the different perspectives on globalization
Analyze historical examples of globalization's impact
Formulate an argument and write an essay

Develop a case study on a global business

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Put your learning into practice by developing a comprehensive case study on a real-world global business. This hands-on project will allow you to apply course concepts, analyze data, and present your findings.

Browse courses on Case study

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Select a global business operating in multiple countries.
Analyze the company's business strategy, financial performance, and market position.
Identify key challenges and opportunities faced by the business in a global context.
Develop recommendations for the company's future growth and success.
Present your case study findings in a written report or presentation.

Develop a presentation on a specific global trend

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Creating a presentation on a specific global trend will allow you to synthesize your understanding of the course material and communicate your insights effectively.

Browse courses on Presentation Skills

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Choose a specific global trend that interests you
Research the trend thoroughly using academic journals and reputable news sources
Develop a clear and engaging presentation outline
Practice your presentation and seek feedback from peers or instructors

Develop a business plan for a global company

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Creating a business plan for a global company will allow you to apply the concepts of global markets, economic imbalances, and geopolitical landscapes.

Browse courses on Global Business Strategy

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Identify a global market opportunity
Develop a business model and strategy
Analyze potential risks and challenges
Create a financial plan and projections

Mentor a student in a developing country

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Gain practical experience in applying course concepts while making a meaningful contribution to global development.

Browse courses on Mentoring

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Identify a mentoring program that connects students in developed and developing countries
Apply to become a mentor
Meet with your mentee regularly

Attend industry conferences and events

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Attending industry conferences and events will allow you to connect with professionals in the field and learn about current trends and practices.

Browse courses on Networking

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Identify relevant conferences and events
Prepare an elevator pitch and materials
Attend sessions and engage in discussions
Follow up with potential contacts

Career center

Learners who complete Global Trends for Business and Society will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Global Affairs Analyst

Global affairs analysts research and analyze global events to provide insights to businesses, governments, and other organizations. This course provides a solid understanding of the complex interplay between global trends, consumer and labor markets, financial systems, and geopolitical relationships. You will learn how to analyze rapidly changing global trends and their impact on the business world and society, making you a valuable asset in the field of global affairs.

See salaries and explore the career path for Global Affairs Analyst

Consultant

Consultants analyze global trends to develop strategies for businesses and organizations. This course provides a solid foundation in understanding the impact of global trends on consumer and labor markets, financial systems, and geopolitical relationships. The course's focus on real-world case studies will equip you with the skills to identify and adapt to global changes, making you a valuable asset to any consulting firm.

See salaries and explore the career path for Consultant

Risk Analyst

Risk analysts identify and assess risks to businesses and organizations. This course provides a solid foundation in understanding the impact of global trends on consumer and labor markets, financial systems, and geopolitical relationships. You will learn how to analyze rapidly changing global trends and their effects on different industries and sectors, which will help you develop and implement effective risk management strategies.

See salaries and explore the career path for Risk Analyst

International Business Manager

International business managers oversee the global operations of a company. This course provides a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities of doing business in a globalized world. You will learn about the impact of global trends on consumer and labor markets, financial systems, and geopolitical relationships, which will help you make informed decisions in your role as an international business manager.

See salaries and explore the career path for International Business Manager

Market Research Analyst

Market research analysts study market trends to identify opportunities for businesses. This course provides a solid foundation in understanding the impact of global trends on consumer and labor markets. You will learn how to analyze rapidly changing global trends and their effects on consumer behavior, which will help you make informed decisions about product development and marketing strategies.

See salaries and explore the career path for Market Research Analyst

Economist

Economists study and analyze global economic trends to forecast economic growth, inflation, and other key indicators. This course provides a comprehensive overview of global economic and financial imbalances, helping you develop the skills to assess the impact of these trends on individual countries and their relationships with one another.

See salaries and explore the career path for Economist

Sustainability Manager

Sustainability managers develop and implement strategies to reduce the environmental impact of businesses and organizations. This course provides a solid foundation in understanding the impact of global trends on consumer and labor markets, financial systems, and geopolitical relationships. You will learn how to analyze rapidly changing global trends and their effects on the environment, which will help you develop and implement effective sustainability strategies.

See salaries and explore the career path for Sustainability Manager

Financial Analyst

Financial analysts evaluate and interpret financial data to make investment recommendations. This course provides a deep understanding of how monetary trends and the distribution of monetary wealth affect the globe. You will learn critical concepts such as the Gini Coefficient and the Kuznets Curve, which are essential tools for analyzing the global distribution of wealth.

See salaries and explore the career path for Financial Analyst

Policy Analyst

Policy analysts research and analyze public policy issues to inform decision-making. This course provides a comprehensive overview of global trends and their impact on society. You will learn how to analyze rapidly changing global trends and their effects on consumer and labor markets, financial systems, and geopolitical relationships, which will help you develop and evaluate sound public policies.

See salaries and explore the career path for Policy Analyst

Urban Planner

Urban planners design and develop cities and towns. This course provides a comprehensive overview of global trends and their impact on urbanization and migration. You will learn how to analyze rapidly changing global trends and their effects on population dynamics, which will help you design and implement sustainable and livable urban environments.

See salaries and explore the career path for Urban Planner

International Development Specialist

International development specialists work to improve the living conditions of people in developing countries. This course provides a solid foundation in understanding the complex challenges facing developing countries, including poverty, inequality, and conflict. You will learn how to analyze global trends and their impact on developing countries, which will help you design and implement effective development programs.

See salaries and explore the career path for International Development Specialist

Sociologist

Sociologists study the social behavior and interactions of human beings. This course provides a comprehensive overview of global trends and their impact on society. You will learn how to analyze rapidly changing global trends and their effects on consumer and labor markets, financial systems, and geopolitical relationships, which will help you understand and address the social challenges facing the world.

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Political Scientist

Political scientists study the political systems and processes of different countries. This course provides a comprehensive overview of global geopolitical landscapes and the global powers of the 21st century. You will learn about different political regimes, failed states, and anocracies, and how these factors shape global power dynamics.

See salaries and explore the career path for Political Scientist

Geographer

Geographers study the physical and human characteristics of the Earth's surface. This course provides a comprehensive overview of global geopolitical landscapes and the global powers of the 21st century. You will learn about different political regimes, failed states, and anocracies, and how these factors shape global power dynamics.

See salaries and explore the career path for Geographer

Journalist

Journalists research and report on current events. This course provides a comprehensive overview of global trends and their impact on the world. You will learn how to analyze rapidly changing global trends and their effects on consumer and labor markets, financial systems, and geopolitical relationships, which will help you produce informed and insightful journalism.

See salaries and explore the career path for Journalist