International Business Context from Coursera

What's inside

Syllabus

International Trade

In this first module, we take a quick survey of the long history of global trade and then review reasons why international trade has grown so rapidly in recent decades. Next, we review the historical evolution of trade theory and review contemporary trade theories. We argue that International Business is the implementation of International, discuss the motives for engaging in international business, and present the methods that businesses employ to operate globally. Along the way we look at a huge ongoing effort to recreate an ancient trading route; we delve into history to investigate a failed theory of trade that has repercussions to this day; and will explore why one of the world’s largest companies has often failed with its global expansion efforts. So, fasten your seatbelts – we’re taking off!

Globalization

A hallmark of recent decades has been the very rapid growth of international trade. This week we will define globalization, survey some of its successes, and will review its challenges and criticisms. We will conclude with a case study of an emerging technology that may well greatly accelerate the rapid pace of globalization!

International Political, Legal, and Economic Environments

This module examines the varied environments in which international businesses must operate and succeed. We first examine the underpinning of international political and legal systems. Next, we examine the underpinning of international political and legal systems. International managers must understand how these systems work and their implications for conducting international business. Finally, we tackle the challenging topics of international business ethics, corporate social responsibility (CSR), and corruption. These topics are challenging because there are no bright guidelines for defining right from wrong, good from bad, or honest from corrupt in international business. Nonetheless, international managers must frequently make difficult ethical and moral decisions, even without clear guide lines. It is imperative that managers understand these topics and their implications for conducting international operations. If managers do not understand the fundamental rules of a country in which they operate, they won’t be successful there!

International Trade Law

With this module we examine the many ways that nations build barriers to impede trade to protect their domestic industries and jobs. Then, ironically, we study the many foreign trade agreements and organizations that nations create to reduce and sometimes eliminate those same barriers. We then summarize various national trade laws, such as import and export restrictions imposed by individual countries. Next, we examine Free Trade Zones that countries establish to reduce trade barriers and promote cross-border transactions. Finally, we will focus on national intellectual property laws such as patents, copyrights, and trademarks which has become critically important as much international trade now includes an abundance of high-tech and entertainment products with valuable embedded IP.

Context of International Business

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Provides a comprehensive overview of the context of international business

Covers various topics, including international trade, globalization, and international political, legal, and economic environments

Examines the impact of globalization on international business

Instructors have expertise in the field of international business

May require prior knowledge in international business

Reviews summary

Highly rated ib fundamentals course

Learners say that this International Business Context course is well received and is highly rated. The course is an engaging, great introduction to international business, according to students, and provides a nice overview of the field. One learner comments, "Gave me an inside on how the international trade works and how international relations are maintained." Students also appreciate the useful and practical information in this course.

Helpful Resources

"Very interesting a lot of useful information, well presented and discussed."

"It gave the introduction I needed for International Business."

Well-Structured Course

"Very well structured course....especially for those of use who don't have a background in business."

"Videos were short and to the point."

"Readings were well postured."

Knowledgeable and Engaging Instructor

"Very interesting course, the professor is very charismatic and great at what he does."

"The way in which the questions were projected to reflect the course's perspective on the topics was an effective way to comprehend the topics."

Top-notch Content

"Very useful information about international business context"

"Very well structured course....especially for those of use who don't have a background in business."

"In my opinion the course covers the complete spectrum of global commerce from a point of view that involved public and private scopes and the universe of organizations, rules and regulations. It is a complete course."

Occasional Subtitles Issues

"O conteúdo é bom, mas fica muito prejudicado pela má qualidade das legendas."

Challenging Quizzes

"It is a very good introductory course, however, I think quizzes could be more difficult."

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 International Business Context with these activities:

Review International Trade

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Review the history, theories, and motives for engaging in international business to strengthen your foundation for the course.

Browse courses on International Trade

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Read the instructor-provided materials on the history and theories of international trade.
Review the case study on the Belt and Road Initiative.
Discuss the motives for engaging in international business with a classmate or colleague.

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

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Gain insights into the forces driving globalization and its impact on international business by reading this thought-provoking book.

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

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Read the book and take notes on the key concepts.
Discuss the book's ideas with classmates or colleagues.

Attend Industry Conferences and Webinars

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Expand your professional network and stay updated on industry trends by attending industry conferences and webinars related to international business.

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Identify relevant industry conferences and webinars.
Register and attend the events.
Network with other professionals.

Four other activities

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Calculate Tariffs and Trade Barriers

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Practice calculating tariffs and analyzing the impact of trade barriers to improve your understanding of international trade policies.

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Solve practice problems on calculating tariffs and trade barriers.
Analyze a case study on the impact of tariffs on a specific industry.

Contribute to Open Trade Data Initiatives

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Contribute to open trade data initiatives by reporting bugs, documenting code, or analyzing data to improve the availability and accessibility of trade information.

Browse courses on Open Data

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Identify open trade data initiatives.
Choose an area to contribute to (e.g., bug reporting, documentation, data analysis).
Make your contributions.

Develop a Business Plan for International Expansion

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Create a comprehensive business plan outlining your strategies for expanding your business internationally, considering the political, economic, and legal environments of target markets.

Browse courses on International Business

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Research and analyze target markets.
Develop a marketing and sales strategy for each target market.
Outline operational and logistical plans for international expansion.
Consider the ethical and sustainability implications of international expansion.
Present your business plan to a group of peers or mentors for feedback and critique.

Mentor Students or Professionals in International Business

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Share your knowledge and experience by mentoring students or professionals seeking to advance their careers in international business.

Browse courses on Mentorship

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Identify opportunities to mentor others.
Provide guidance and support to your mentees.

Career center

Learners who complete International Business Context will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

International Trade Specialist

International Trade Specialists help businesses navigate the complex world of international trade. This course provides a critical understanding of how globalization impacts international business and explores the wide array of international trade agreements and national trade laws and regulations. This knowledge is key for International Trade Specialists to successfully advise businesses on how to optimize their global trade strategies and mitigate potential risks.

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International Business Manager

International Business Managers are responsible for overseeing the global operations of their companies. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the factors that impact international business, including the theory and history of international trade, the motives for engaging in international business, and the methods that businesses employ to operate globally. By gaining a deep understanding of these topics, individuals can make informed decisions and effectively manage their international operations.

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International Marketing Manager

International Marketing Managers develop and execute marketing strategies for products and services in global markets. This course provides a deep understanding of the international political, economic, and legal environments, as well as globalization. This knowledge is essential for International Marketing Managers to tailor marketing campaigns to different cultures and effectively reach target audiences in various countries.

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Global Supply Chain Manager

Global Supply Chain Managers oversee the complex task of managing the flow of goods and services across borders. This course provides a comprehensive understanding of the international political, economic, and legal environments, as well as globalization, which are critical factors in global supply chain management. It explores the challenges and opportunities of operating in different countries, and provides insights into strategies for optimizing supply chains and mitigating risks.

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International Business Consultant

To be successful as an International Business Consultant, one must have a thorough understanding of the contexts in which businesses must operate globally. This course provides an in-depth examination of these contexts, including the political, economic, and legal environments of international business. Furthermore, the review of how globalization impacts international business can be instrumental in assisting clients in maximizing their global expansion efforts.

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International Business Negotiator

International Business Negotiators broker agreements between different parties in the global marketplace. By examining the varied political, economic, and ethical environments in which international business must operate, this course helps build the foundation needed to collaborate with individuals with different and sometimes opposing objectives. The course also reviews current international trade agreements and national trade laws and regulations, which is essential knowledge to be successful as an International Business Negotiator.

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Country Risk Analyst

Country Risk Analysts assess the political, economic, and social risks associated with conducting business in different countries. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the varied political, economic, and legal environments in which international business must operate, giving Country Risk Analysts the knowledge and tools to evaluate and mitigate risks, and make informed recommendations to businesses considering expanding into new markets.

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International Tax Analyst

International Tax Analysts must be knowledgeable about the intricate web of international tax laws and regulations. This course provides a detailed overview of how varied political, economic, and legal environments impact international business, helping individuals to understand the complexities of global taxation. As multinational corporations navigate the complexities of international tax laws, this course provides the foundation to advise clients on how to minimize tax liabilities, remain compliant, and maximize profits.

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Business Intelligence Analyst

Within international business, Business Intelligence Analysts collect and analyze information from a variety of sources to provide insights and recommendations to business leaders. This course provides a foundation in the context of international business, including the political, economic, and legal environments, as well as globalization. With this knowledge, Business Intelligence Analysts can better understand the factors that impact businesses operating globally and provide valuable insights to help companies make informed decisions and stay competitive in the global marketplace.

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Compliance Officer

Compliance Officers ensure that businesses adhere to the myriad of laws, regulations, and ethical standards that govern international business. This course provides a deep understanding of the international political, legal, and economic environments, enabling individuals to effectively manage compliance risks and navigate the complexities of global business operations. With a focus on international trade laws and regulations, this course empowers Compliance Officers to maintain the highest standards of ethics and integrity in the global marketplace.

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International Sales Manager

International Sales Managers lead teams responsible for driving sales and building relationships with customers in global markets. This course provides a strong foundation in the context of international business, including the political, economic, and legal environments, as well as globalization. With this knowledge, International Sales Managers can better understand the challenges and opportunities of operating in different countries and develop effective strategies to achieve sales targets and build lasting customer relationships.

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Economic Development Officer

Economic Development Officers are responsible for promoting economic growth and development in their communities. This course provides a thorough understanding of the international political, economic, and legal environments in which businesses operate, helping individuals to identify and seize opportunities for economic growth. By learning about the motives for engaging in international business and the methods that businesses employ to operate globally, Economic Development Officers can create targeted strategies to attract and retain businesses, ultimately boosting the economic prosperity of their communities.

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Trade Finance Analyst

As Trade Finance Analysts are responsible for assessing and mitigating risk in international trade transactions, understanding the legal and regulatory landscape is crucial. This course provides an overview of the various national trade laws and regulations, as well as international trade agreements that govern international business operations. With this knowledge, individuals can make more informed and appropriate decisions regarding trade finance transactions.

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Logistics Manager

Logistics Managers play a critical role in the international supply chain, ensuring efficient and cost-effective movement of goods. This course provides valuable insights into the political, economic, and legal environments of international business, helping Logistics Managers to understand the factors that impact the movement of goods across borders. It also covers the latest developments in international trade laws and regulations, enabling them to stay compliant and navigate the complexities of global logistics.

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Foreign Exchange Trader

Foreign Exchange Traders must be well-versed in the international political, economic, and legal environments in which businesses operate. This course provides a comprehensive review of these topics, ensuring that individuals have the knowledge and understanding to make sound trading decisions and stay abreast of the latest developments that impact the foreign exchange market.

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