Economics (ECON) 401

The Changing Global Economy (Revision 5)

ECON 401 course cover

Revision 5 is closed for registrations, replaced by current version.

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Delivery Mode: Individualized study online or grouped study** (check locations) - both options with eTextbook

Credits: 3

Area of Study: Social Science

Prerequisite: ECON 247 or ECON 248 or an introductory course in economics.

Precluded Course: ECON 401 may not be taken for credit by students who have obtained credit for ECON 301.

Faculty: Faculty of Business

ECON 401 is not available for challenge.

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Overview

At a very general level, economic globalization refers to the integration of world markets and production. What are the key driving forces behind globalization? Are globalizing markets limiting the power of governments and societies to freely choose their futures? How is globalization affecting economic inequality and poverty? Who are the winners and losers in the process? How are the less developed regions of the world affected? What is the role of multinational firms? What economic policies are appropriate for a country like Canada in the emerging, competitive global economy? What economic policies are appropriate for a developing country? These are some of the important issues we will examine.

This course focuses on the economic aspects of globalization but recognizes that political, social, and cultural perspectives are also important. In ECON 401, you will examine the theory, evidence, and policies related to globalization. As a result, you will develop a critical understanding of globalization issues.

Outline

  • Unit 1: The Meaning of Globalization
  • Unit 2: Trade and Globalization
  • Unit 3: Foreign Direct Investment
  • Unit 4: The Global Monetary System
  • Unit 5: Globalization and the Less Developed Countries
  • Unit 6: Globalization and Public Policy

Evaluation

To receive credit for ECON 401, you must achieve a course composite grade of at least a “D” (50 percent) and a grade of at least 50 percent on the final examination. The weighting of the composite grade is as follows:

Assign 1 Assign 2 Assign 3 Assign 4 Assign 5 Final Exam Total
10% 10% 10% 10% 20% 40% 100%

To learn more about assignments and examinations, please refer to Athabasca University's online Calendar.

Note: The final examination for this course must be taken online at an invigilated location. It is your responsibility to ensure a computer with an Internet connection and Internet Explorer 7.0 or higher is available for your use at the invigilation centre.

Course Materials

Textbook

Registration in this course includes an electronic textbook. For more information on electronic textbooks, please refer to our eText Initiative site.

Hill, C. W. L. (2012). International business: Competing in the global marketplace (9th ed.). New York: McGraw-Hill/Irwin. ISBN: 9780077630799

A print version of the eText may be available for purchase from the publisher through a direct-to-student link provided on the course website; you can also acquire the textbook on your own if you wish.

Other Resources

All other learning resources will be available online.

Current Grouped Study Locations

Athabasca University reserves the right to amend course outlines occasionally and without notice. Courses offered by other delivery methods may vary from their individualized-study counterparts.

Opened in Revision 5, January 7, 2014.

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