Cooperation and Conflict in World Trade (ECON90025)

Intended learning outcomes

The aim of this subject is to develop fundamental skills in critical thinking and analysis in the context of the main developments in international business and world trade, and to build a critical appreciation of the role of laws and regulations of national and international institutions that effect the conduct of that business and trade.

On successful completion of this subject students should be able to:

• Critically evaluate and interpret trends in the world economy towards globalisation, in terms of the linking of national markets for goods, services and factors;
• Explain the importance of laws, norms and regulations of national institutions, cultures and governments in relation to policies concerning international trade in goods and services, foreign direct investment, and economic growth;
• Explain the role of international institutions (such as the WTO and IMF) in relation to policies concerning international trade in goods and services, foreign direct investment, and economic growth;
• Critically evaluate arguments about the role of such institutions and the conflict between parties to those organisations with respect to cultural, political and environmental factors and issues;
• Evaluate new developments in national and international institutions’ laws and regulations and identify how these developments will affect international trade and business.

Generic skills

On successful completion of this subject, students should have improved the following generic skills:

• Evaluation of ideas, views and evidence
• Synthesis of ideas, views and evidence
• Strategic thinking
• Critical thinking
• Accessing economic and other information
• Summary and interpretation of information
• Collaborative learning and team work
• Written communication
• Oral communication