2024finalINTERNATIONAL BUSINESS AND ECONOMICS - Course Outline

PDBA Online
INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS AND ECONOMICS
BUSA 52680
Module Facilitator: DR RENEE HORNE
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Module Outline, Outcomes, Activities and Assessments
Module Outline
The contemporary international economic system is more closely integrated than in any
previous era. The Covid 19 pandemic, the East Asian financial crisis of the late 1990s provides
a clear illustration of the relationship between trade, finance, international institutions, and
the problems that governments face in coping with the problems generated by complex
interdependence.
The international business and economics module provides students with an understanding
of the rapidly changing global economy. It concentrates on explanations of the complexities
of the business discipline in relation to the theory of international trade and finance and the
changing roles of international institutions (such as the World Trade Organization and the
International Monetary Fund). Moreover, due to the ‘new normal’ the South African business
environment has rapidly changed hence business executives need to understand that a firm’s
success is intrinsically linked to the external environment. Often firm’s lack the understanding
of the economic, political, environmental factors be it location, the prices of products, the
distribution system, or the labour policies which ultimately have dire consequences on a
firm’s success. Thus, it is important to contextualise the various components of the business
environment.
This course will integrate the macro and the micro dimensions particularly within the global
context in which South Africa and the continent find themselves. There are a number of
apparently irresistible forces and immovable objects, which present difficult policy dilemmas
to government, and considerable management challenges to business. The course covers the
mechanics and theory of International Business and Trade focusing on macro-economic
dimensions that affect trade.
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Module Outcomes (MO)
At the end of this module, students should be able to:
1. Explain the basic features linked to the business activity.

2. Examine key elements of globalisation.
3. Critically assess the integration of the macro and micro dimensions of economics, particularly
within the global context in which South Africa finds itself.
4. Analyse and critique the major theories explaining the economic forces at work in a
modern economy, with a view to making constructive use of economic information in
operational and strategic decision-making.
5. Assess the importance of a firm’s culture which can ultimately lead to the demise or success
of the business.
6. Evaluate the importance of international trade within the global economy.
7. Provide South Africa’s Competitive advantage in the global economy.
8. Relate that a firm’s business activity is linked to the external environment, thus governments
are at times required to intervene.
9. The unit-level outcomes later on will elaborate on the module outcomes set out
above.
Addressing the Core Themes of the PDBA
Curriculum tied to context in South Africa
The course addresses the challenges faced by South Africa in terms of competitiveness in
relation to other developed and new industrialised economies. It also addresses South
Africa’s opportunities in relation to trade. Here we use case studies such as monopolies,
tariffs, and protection in the context of international trade.
Curriculum tied to context in African and other dynamic emerging market economies.
The course identifies the opportunities for growth of the African continent as well as its
challenges such as the slow-down of China and the associated drop in commodity prices. It
maps these global issues facing African countries and major firms therein, thus enabling
students to begin to address these issues at a management level. Here we discuss, for
example, intra-Africa trade.
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Sustainability
The course takes into consideration how organisations create long term value and how the
organisation operates in the ecological, social and economic environment. Sustainability is
built on the assumption that developing such strategies foster company longevity. Some
aspects of sustainability that the course addresses are those of inclusive shareholdership
(stakeholdership) in the context of societal value and the objectives of the firm such as the
profit maximization.
Entrepreneurial action
Obvious links with innovation and entrepreneurial action and (managed) risk-taking are
addressed in the discussion of productivity and economic growth. The latter – as partly
induced by small and medium-sized firms – is crucial for reducing South Africa’s
unemployment rate as mandated in the government’s National Development Plan (NDP).
Critical engagement
By focusing on examples of successful and unsuccessful business ventures in Africa the course
enables the student to acquire a better perspective on foreseeable and unforeseeable
consequences of action and business decisions.
Integration with other PDBA subjects
The International Business and Economics course is central to the PDBA degree. It will prove
useful with helping students to understand the theories of international business,
international trade, the business environment in emerging markets, the free-market system
and why government intervenes.
Prescribed Readings
Cavusgil, S. T., Knight, G., & Riesenberger, J. (2020). International business: The new realities.
global ed.5th edition, Pearson, United Kingdom
NEPAD, (2020). Globalisation linkage to COVID-19: How Africa’s Economy is Impacted?
https://www.un.org/africarenewal/news/coronavirus/globalisation-linkage-covid-19-how-
africa%E2%80%99s-economy-impacted, Retrieved 1 March 2021
Specific chapters in the prescribed textbook for each unit are listed under the relevant unit
further in this module pack.
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Case Studies and Illustrative Case Article
Hobbs, J., & Draper, P. (2015). Poultry tariffs: Levelling the playing field or rewarding
inefficiency? Epilogue (Report No. WBS-2015-4). University of the
Witwatersrand, Graduate School of Business Administration, Wits, South Africa.
inefficiency? (Report No. WBS-2015-3). University of the Witwatersrand,
Graduate School of Business Administration, Wits, South Africa.
Note to students about the importance of preparation and self-study
It is important to read the chapter once before it is discussed in the week class and then read
it again after the topic is covered. Reading and practicing the material beforehand will greatly
assist in identifying the areas that are difficult to grasp so that we can emphasise on those in
class.
Use selected case questions and summaries at the end of each chapter covered to assess your
understanding of the subject matter. Although they will not be graded, they will help you
tremendously to understand the material and improve your final mark.
Pre-requisite Information
There are no prerequisites to complete this online module.
Learning Activities
The learning activities in this module include prescribed readings and other resources, self-
study, live lectures on unit topics, online discussions, quizzes and a syndicate assignment. It
is imperative that you contribute meaningfully to online discussions by, for instance,
answering prompt questions, and posing insightful new questions and by sharing relevant
professional and personal experiences.
Learning Contract
Please note that as a student you should review the Learning Contract and ensure you are
fully aware of the implications of the assessment approach as the methods of assessment and
mark allocations cannot be changed retrospectively. If you have any concerns about the
assessment approach, you should raise this with your facilitator at the start of the module.
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Module Assessments
Assessment Weighting Date Mark Return Date
(%)
Quizzes (there will be 2 15% QUIZ 1 – 1 February The marks will be

quizzes between weeks 1-7) 2024 provided week after
QUIZ.
17h30-18h30
QUIZ 2- 22 February
2024
17h30-18h30
Online participation (there 10% Due as per Unit The marks will be
will be 2 online discussion Schedule available at the end
tasks between weeks 1-6) of each following
week
Attend Live Session 6x0.5 =3% Live sessions will The marks will be
require mandatory available at the end
attendance of at of the module.
least 5 sessions:
0.5% per session.
Syndicate assignment 32% 29 February 2024 The marks will be

made available one
(1) week after
submission
Examination 40% 6 March 2024 Subject to all exam

committee checks
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More information about assessment
Quizzes
Purpose: Quizzes are aimed at assessing student’s understanding of the module material
covered in various units/weeks (Weeks 1 – 7).
Requirement: The student is required to answer a maximum of 5 questions which can be in

the form of multiple-choice questions, true or false questions or problem-solving questions.
Penalty for late submission: All quizzes should be completed within the allocated times in
each week. Once the quiz deadline has passed, the quiz questions cannot be accessed
anymore; meaning marks associated with a late or missed quiz will be lost.
Marking rubric: Each quiz will be marked according to the following rules:
• The total number of marks allocated may be different for each quiz, but each quiz will
be worth 5%, implying that the TWO quizzes will have a weighting of 15%.
• There will be no negative marking.
• Students will receive different quiz questions which will be testing same concepts and
principles.
Online Participation
Purpose: The objective of online participation is to assess student’s ability to analyse,

synthesise and evaluate the principles and concepts learned in various units/weeks (Weeks 1
– 7).
Requirement: The module facilitator will provide questions that will help generate discussion
from the material covered and the students are required to discuss the questions in
collaboration with other students, while the facilitator will provide guidance and moderation
of the topic. This is not a syndicate submission, and each student is required to submit their
thoughts or arguments independently.
Penalty for late submission: The online participation should be completed within the
allocated times in each week. Late submissions will not be accepted, and no alternative
discussion topic or session will be provided. Marks associated with a late or missed online
discussion will be lost.
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Marking rubric: The online participation will account for 8% of the final mark per allocated
unit, while the total allocated to online participation will be 4% for 2 units.
The following rubric will be used to assess online participation:
Grade Criteria
• Does not participate, or
0 • Participates in an actively negative, disruptive, or
inappropriate manner
• Demonstrates minimal preparation / involvement and
incorrect evaluation, analysis, and application of most key
issues.
• Copying and pasting material from the internet
• Contributes general and obvious points that do little or
nothing to develop the discussion.
1 • Occasionally responds to the thoughts and ideas of others
but does not generate insightful contributions or
questions that help advance the discussion.
• Provides little or no supporting evidence based on logical
arguments, practical examples, and/or properly cited
(APA format) peer-reviewed publications or other reliable
sources
• Demonstrates adequate preparation / involvement and
correct evaluation, analysis and application of most key
issues based on module materials.
• Contributes specific answers and points that develop the
2 discussion.
• Builds on the contributions of others, or politely but firmly
raises disagreements and offers alternative views.
• Provides some supporting evidence based on logical
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sources
• Demonstrates excellent preparation / involvement and
correct evaluation, analysis and application of all key
issues based on module materials and additional
research.
• Acts as a leader in ongoing discussions as evidenced by
keeping analysis focused on topic; suggesting alternative
approaches / interpretations; stimulating debate through
3 insightful questions; helping consistently to clarify or
synthesise other students’ ideas.
• Interacts with the ideas of others consistently,
constructively, and politely.
• Provides strong supporting evidence based on logical
sources
Syndicate Assignment
Purpose: The syndicate assignment is designed to test managerial problem-solving skills,

provide recommendations and make management decisions.
Syndicate group format: Members are assigned to their groups at the beginning of the
module. Ideally, a maximum number of people in a group will be 8. Syndicate groups can
meet on Canvas on the dates and times that members agree on. Is advisable for group
members to meet early in the first week to introduce themselves to each other and plan how
they will work together. The purpose of the syndicate groups is to enable members to acquire
teamwork skills and therefore, any misunderstanding between team members should not be
expected to lead to a change in team membership.
Requirement: The syndicate must prepare a full report of answers to the case study questions
(Arial, 12-point, 1.5 spacing, maximum 5 pages, including all references and exhibits, but
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excluding the cover page). All members are expected to participate in preparing the syndicate
assignment. An indication of the relative contribution of each member must be provided in
the cover page of the report. Syndicates must submit soft copies of the report to Canvas
before the submission deadline.
Deadline: 29 February 2024 at 23:59
Penalty for late submission: 10% will be deducted from the total assignment mark for every
calendar day, or part thereof, that the assignment is late.
Marking rubric: The syndicate assignment accounts for 29% of the final grade.
Mark allocation:
Criterion Mark Allocation

(%)
Use of the theory covered in the course. 30
Application of the theory to the relevant case study 30
Research and use of relevant data to complement situation 30

analysis
Structure, layout, style and referencing 10
TOTAL 100
Syndicate Assignment
This assignment is related to the PDBA theme Context in South Africa.
According to Jim Myers, president of the American Chamber of Commerce in South Africa, nearly
50% of the chamber’s members are Fortune 500 companies, and that over 90% operate beyond
South Africa’s borders into southern Africa, sub-Saharan Africa and across the continent. “The
sophisticated business environment of South Africa provides a powerful strategic export and
manufacturing platform for achieving global competitive advantage, cost reductions and new market
access,” says Myers (Brand South Africa, 2005).
Critically analyse the above statement, taking into account the following:
A. What is international business, and how has it transformed the world economy?
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B. The four trends that provide evidence for the globalisation of markets. Provide a South
African case example to illustrate one of the trends.
C. What role do other factors play such as Covid 19 and the reduction of South African
companies?
Examination
Purpose: The purpose of the exam is to assess students’ understanding of material covered
from weeks 1-6 inclusive.
Requirement: The exam will be administered in week 8. It will be a timed open-book exam
that is accessed and submitted via Canvas at 8h00 on exam day and submitted by 22h00 (12
hours) on the same day. In terms of university rules, it is the sole responsibility of the student
to ensure that he/she determines the date, time and place with stable internet connectivity
for an examination which he/she is due to write.
Penalty for late submission: The exam script submitted after the cut-off time will not be
accepted or marked.
Marking rubric: The examination accounts for 50% of the final mark. It will be marked out of
100. The general marking guidelines and question-specific mark allocation will be provided in
the examination itself.
Plagiarism and Related Submission Requirements
All students are required to electronically sign and attach the WBS Plagiarism Declaration to
each submitted quiz, assignment, and examination. Students should note that each
assignment and examination is automatically passed through Turnitin upon submission to
Canvas. The resulting Turnitin report will be considered alongside the normal marking of the
submission. It is paramount for each student to refer to University’s policy on plagiarism,
particularly the details in the Plagiarism Declaration which they sign.
Pass Mark Requirements
The University’s Standing Orders stipulates that a final accumulative average mark of 50%
should be achieved for one to pass the module. A subminimum mark of 35% is allowed in the
examination.
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Module Timetable
Venue: Canvas
Unit Week Topics
0 0 Module 0: Discussion -- Ask the Facilitator” discussion forum on Canvas
1 1 The firm’s business activity: internal and external variables
2 2 Globalisation of Markets
3 3 The Global Financial System
4 4 The environment of International Business: (Part 1) Culture, Ethics,

Corporate Social Responsibility
5 5 The Environment of International Business: (Part 2) Theories of

International Trade
6 6 Government Intervention
7 7 Revision & Examination
Units/weeks, and topics correct at time of publication. Students must consult Canvas for
the up-to-date schedule
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Introducing Module Facilitators
Dr Renee Horne is an International Political Economist. She joined WBS in September 2013
as a Senior Lecturer in Economics and Business in Africa. She is also the WBS Management
Advancement Programme Director, Chairperson for the South African Supplier Diversity
Council (SASDC), South Africa Broadcasting Corporation Non-Executive Director and a
member of the Institute of Directors in Southern Africa. Dr Horne is also a Senior Associate at
the University of Johannesburg, School of Leadership. Dr Horne holds five degrees, three
degrees (BA – Law, Hons, MA) from the University of KwaZulu-Natal and two degrees (MSc
and PhD – IPE) from the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), University of London.
Her area of interest is Business in Africa, BRICS economies, Macroeconomic Policy and Broad-
based Black Economic Empowerment.
Experience: With more than fifteen years’ experience as an award-winning political journalist,
war correspondent, editor and political economist, Dr Horne has been acknowledged by
government, business and academics as an expert political economist and journalist on Sub
Saharan Africa and the Middle East. Internationally, Dr Horne has advised governments,
media and business on the political and economic policy of South Africa, Iraq, Kenya, the
Democratic Republic of the Congo, Nigeria and Uganda. She has worked extensively in regions
and countries such as East Africa, Southern Africa, the Middle East, Europe, the United States
and Brazil, etc. Dr Horne has worked with institutions such as Transparency International,
Delta Economics, Royal Africa Society, Exclusive Analysis, Royal United Services Institute, BBC,
SKY, ITV, SABC and the World Entrepreneur Society. During this period, she interviewed
politicians and high-profile personalities such as South African Presidents, Nelson Mandela,
Thabo Mbeki, Jacob Zuma, former Finance Minister, Trevor Manuel, former Palestinian
National Authority (PNA) President, Yasser Arafat and former Israeli Prime Minister, Shimon
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Peres. Since 1994, Dr Horne has been a lecturer and guest speaker on Political Economy and
International Relations in Africa and the Middle East at numerous institutions such as SOAS,
the University of KwaZulu-Natal, the University of Rhodes and Johannesburg University, John
Hopkins University, and the Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), Washington
DC. Passionate about enterprise and skills development, she was also the Head of the Gordon
Institute of Business Science (GIBS) Broad-based Black Economic Empowerment (BBBEE) Unit.
Contact information
Office tel: (011) 717 3612
Email: Renee.Horne@wits.ac.za
Interaction Opportunities
• Replies to emails can be expected within 3 business days.

• Feedback for quizzes is auto-graded by the system and will be made available
immediately after your quiz submission.
• Assessment Feedback: Grading information is provided in the assessment section
under your module introduction on CANVAS.
• Announcements will be sent on a weekly basis with reminders and information
pertinent to the module.
• I will facilitate live conference sessions when the need arises. The exact days and
times will be announced. If you cannot attend these sessions, please be sure to
watch the recording that will be made available 24 hours after the live session.
Online consultation
I will be available for consultation through Canvas inbox, private messages, or public posts to
the “Module 0: Discussion -- Ask the Facilitator” discussion forum on Canvas. We will also be
available through pre-scheduled conference calls on Canvas or through email. We will
endeavor to respond to most queries within three (3) calendar days, excluding weekends as
our availability is limited over the weekends.
Students’ Self-introduction
Under "Unit 0: Discussion -- Introduce Yourself" discussion forum on Canvas, please write a
brief self-introduction which includes the following information: Your name, your location
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(city/town or country); your organization, your expectations for this module, and your
objectives from this course.
NOTE: Post your initial response by Wednesday 23:59 SAST in Week 1, and comment on the
posts of at least two classmates by Friday 23:59 SAST in Week 1. This activity provides you
with initial practice of online participation before applying it to more content-related topics.
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Unit 1: The firm’s business activity: internal and external variables (Week 1 – 2: 15-19
January 2024)
Unit overview:
The interactions between buyers and sellers whether in the superstore or the corner shop,
between the young or the old, the rich or poor are governed by the same principles.
Economic principles tell us why we buy particular goods and services, and how our choices
might be influenced. They help us understand why governments tax businesses and
individuals and why public institutions are important? This unit is therefore designed for
participants to obtain a comprehensive understanding of the study of international business
involves understanding the effects that the above activities have on domestic and foreign
markets, countries, governments, companies, and individuals.
Unit 1 Level Outcomes:
1. Identify the basic features linked to business activity. (MO1)

2. Analyse the difference between international and domestic business. (MO1)
3. Identify major stakeholders in international business. (MO1)
4. Describe why firms internationalize (MO1).
Prescribed Readings:
global ed.5th edition, Pearson, United Kingdom (Chapter 1)
Unit 1: Activities and Assessments
Task Activity Week Due Assessment weight

outcome
Read Part 1: Foundation concepts. 1 Pre- 0%
What is International Reading
Business? Chapter 1 pp. 34- before
61 prescribed reading. session
Watch Video: Why International 4 Preparation 0%
Business? before
session
Attend Lecture on International 1-4 15 January 0.5%
Live Business Theory and how it 2024
Session relates to your business 18h00-
environment 19h00
Participate Discussion forum 1: 2 OP: Tuesday 5%
Explain the importance of the 16 January
macro dimensions and how it 2024
affects your firm? Replies (x2):
by 21
January
2024
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Reading
• Foundation concepts. What is International Business? Chapter 1 pp. 34-61 prescribed
reading.
• Chapter 2 pp.62-91: Globalisation of Markets and Internationalisation of the firm
This chapter explains the foundational concepts of International Business.
As you work through this resource, consider the following:
• Make notes for yourself in a notebook or use a piece of paper to draw a mindmap. This helps
you make key connections throughout your readings and serves as a valuable resource to
return to when completing your assessments.
Live Session
60 min Live Q&A session with your Facilitator
Join the live online session this week to connect with your facilitator, your fellow students,
and with questions about your content.
• Pre-activity: Post two questions that you still have after working through this week’s
module content.
• Note 6 out of 7 live sessions are awarded marks. If you cannot make the live session
then watch the recording, which will automatically be made available in your module
within 24 hours after the session has taken place. It is suggested that you watch the
recording by Tuesday: 23:59 SAST.
• Access support guides in your online orientation module for additional support.
Instructions
• Click on the link below
• Topic: International Business and Economics PDMBA
• Time: 18:00-19:00
Meeting link
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84161694720?pwd=bjZ0MnIwU1FyaVJDQW9UVU54Z
XJldz09
• Meeting ID: 841 6169 4720
• Passcode: 808430
• 5 minutes before the scheduled meeting time to ensure that everything is running
smoothly.
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• Please mute your microphone when the facilitator or presenter is speaking. It would
also be preferred if you could turn your video camera on so that your facilitator and
peers can see you. However, this is personal preference.
• Please respect everyone in the meeting. Give everyone a chance to speak and raise
your hand (by clicking the “raise hand” icon) when you would like to say or ask
something.
Video
Why International Business
This video explains how international business differs from domestic business. It tells you what
factors you need to consider when doing business in a foreign environment.
• The competitiveness of South African firms

• Can South African firms compete with foreign business.
Click on the video here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lMdhfBQUhtI
Author: InternalHub
Date: 30 October 2014
Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lMdhfBQUhtI
Discussion Forum 1
Due Date: OP: Tuesday 16 January 2024
Replies (x2): by 21 January 2024 23:59
Discussion Question:
Based on the live lecture, what are the common macro dimensions that affect South African Domestic
Firms?
Instructions
You are required to engage in a discussion that will count towards your overall module mark.
• You are required to have engaged in this week’s resources and any additional self-study resources
to prepare for the discussion.
• Marks are awarded for the quality of your contribution to the discussion and the
comments/feedback that you provide to your classmates. Refer to the rubric for the criteria
under the Assessments Overview section in your module.
• Please act professionally and respect the views of others in the discussion forum. Avoid using
slang and make use of proper English terminology.
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• Contact your facilitator with questions and concerns.
The discussion consists of two parts:
Part 1: Original Post
Week 1, Tuesday 16 January 2024
Review your class notes and resources, create a thread, and post your thoughts in the discussion forum
in one paragraph between 150 and 200 words. While preparing your post, reflect on the following
questions:
Explain the importance of the macro dimensions and how it affects your firm?
Part 2: Replies
Week 1, Sunday 21 January 2024
Return to the discussion forum and read the answers of your classmates. Select two classmates and
reply to their posts. Responses should be meaningful and recommend an alternative view, or a
rationale for consensus, or suggest additional related readings or videos. Responses should be
between 50 and 100 words each. For each response, consider:
a. How sensible/realistic are their recommendations? Does their assessment of the situation
confirm your thoughts and feelings? Do they challenge your thinking in any way? If so, how?
b. Have you any personal experiences which may give you a different perspective on the
situation? If so, how?
The Serviette Summary

International Business is constantly evolving, “The secret of change is to focus all your energy
not on fighting the old but on building the new.” — Socrates, father of Western philosophy
With this quote in mind, summarise the week’s findings through some reflection work. You can jot
your thoughts on a piece of paper, record a voice note, or scribble the main insights on a coffee shop
serviette. It is for your personal reflection and does not need to be submitted.
Ask yourself:
• How would you conclude the key takeaway(s) for this week?
• What made you curious this week? How does learning feel different when you are curious?
• Think about where in your professional and personal life, you can incorporate what you
learned this week.
• What is your goal for next week?
Unit 2: Globalisation of markets (Week 22 January 2024 – 28 January 2024)

Unit overview:
Successful international businesses recognize the diversity of the world marketplace and are
able to cope with the uncertainties and risks of doing business in a continually changing
global market. “The globalization of markets refers to the gradual integration and growing
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interdependence of national economies. Declining trade barriers and rapid changes in
communications, manufactur-ing, and transportation technologies are enabling firms to
internationalise much more rapidly and easily than ever before” Cavusgil (2020; Pp. 64).
1. Identify the driving forces of globalization. (MO2)
2. Appraise the impact of technological advances on globalization. (MO2)
3. Analyse whether COVID 19 has reduced levels of economic growth in Africa. (MO3)
4. Examine South Africa’s and Africa’s competitiveness in the global economy. (MO3)
Cavusgil, S. T., Knight, G., & Riesenberger, J. (2020). International business: The new
realities. global ed.5th edition, Pearson, United Kingdom (Chapter 2)
NEPAD, (2020). Globalisation linkage to COVID-19: How Africa’s Economy is Impacted?
Task Activity Week Due Assessm

outco ent
me weight
Live Lecture on Globalisation and how it impacts on 1-4 22 0.5%
Lecture SA and Africa’s competitiveness January
2024
Watch Video: Globalisation 1-2 Preparat 0%
ion
before
session
Read Part 1: Foundation concepts on Drivers of 1-2 Pre- 0%
Globalisation? Chapter 2 pp 62-91 reading
before
session
Read Globalisation linkage to COVID-19: How Africa’s 3-4 Pre-
Economy is Impacted? NEPAD, (2020). reading
https://www.un.org/africarenewal/news/coron before
avirus/globalisation-linkage-covid-19-how- session
africa%E2%80%99s-economy-impacted,
Retrieved 1 March 2021
Prepare Quiz 1: 1-4 QUIZ 1 - 5%

for Quiz Week 3: Automat
1 1 ed
February
2024
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Reading
Globalisation linkage to COVID-19: How Africa’s Economy is Impacted? NEPAD, (2020).
• Chapter 2 pp.62-91: Globalisation of Markets and Internationalisation of the firm

The above reading explains the phases of Globalisation and how it affects Africa’s
competitiveness.
• Make notes for yourself in a notebook or use a piece of paper to draw a mindmap. This
helps you make key connections throughout your readings and serves as a valuable
resource to return to when completing your assessments.
Live Session
module content.
Instructions
• Time: 19:00-20:00
Meeting link
XJldz09
• Meeting ID: 841 6169 4720
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smoothly.
something.
Video
Globalization
This video explains how Globalization changes how people consume, work and live almost everywhere
on the world. Today, many economic, political, cultural or ecological relationships are not explainable
from a national perspective. At the same time, a controversial debate about the consequences of
globalization has begun. But what are the main causes for globalization? In what areas it is most
prominent?
• The competitiveness of South African firms

• Can South African firms compete with foreign business.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3oTLyPPrZE4
Author: Wissenswerte
Year: 2011
Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3oTLyPPrZE4

“Who are the winners and looser of globalization?”
With this statement in mind, summarise the week’s findings through some reflection work. You can
jot your thoughts on a piece of paper, record a voice note, or scribble the main insights on a coffee
shop serviette. It is for your personal reflection and does not need to be submitted.
Ask yourself:
learned this week.
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Unit 3: The Global Financial System (Week 3: 29 January 2024 -4 February 2024)
Unit overview:
The international monetary and financial system plays a central role in the global political
economy. Since the late 19th century, the nature of this system has undergone several
transformations in response to changing political and economic conditions at the domestic
and international levels. The most dramatic change was the collapse of the integrated pre-
1914 international monetary and financial regime during the inter-war years. The second
transformation took place after the war when the Bretton Woods order was put in place.
Since the early 1970s, another period of change has been under way as various features of
the Bretton Woods order have unravelled: the gold exchange standard, the adjustable peg
exchange-rate regime, the US dollar’s global role, and the commitment to capital controls.
These various changes have important political consequences for the key issue of who gets
what, where and how in the global political economy.
At the end of this week, you will be able to:
1. Assess the exchange rates and currencies in international business. (MO4)

2. Assess the emergence of the modern exchange rate system. (MO4)
3. Analyse the South African rand against the major currencies. (MO4)
4. Assess how to manage currency risk. (MO4)
global ed.5th edition, Pearson, United Kingdom (Chapter 9 and 10)
23
Task Activity Week Due Assessment

outcome weight
Live Lecture on exchange rates and the importance on 1-4 29 January 0.5%
Session strategic and operational decision making. 2024
Watch Video 1: What is an exchange rate? 1 Preparation 0%
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6XUgw12VKtk for Live
Session.
Video 2: Foreign Exchange Practice
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9DVYVfI81R8
Read Cavusgil: Chapter 9 pp. 276- 301 1-4 Pre- 0%
readings
before live
session
Prepare Quiz 1 1-3 1 February
for 2024
Quiz
Reading
global ed.5th edition, Pearson, United Kingdom, Chapter 9, PP.276-301
The above reading explains how exchange rates are determined.
Live Session
module content.
24
Instructions
• Time: 18:00-19:00
Meeting link
XJldz09
• Meeting ID: 841 6169 4720
smoothly.
something.
Video
These videos explain the financial system and the associated exchange rate. Exchange rate is the value
at which one currency may be converted into another. The exchange rate is used when simply
converting one currency to another such as for the purposes of travel to another country, or for
engaging in speculation or trading in the foreign exchange market.
• The trick is to remember that you supply your currency and the people in other countries
demand your currency.
• There are a wide variety of factors which influence the exchange rate, such as interest rates,
inflation, and the state of politics and the economy in each country.
Video 1: What is an exchange rate?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6XUgw12VKtk
Author: Barry Norman
Year: 8 May 2015
Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6XUgw12VKtk
25
Video 2: Foreign Exchange Practice
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9DVYVfI81R8
Author: Jacob Clifford
Year: 8 May 2014
Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9DVYVfI81R8

“South Africa’s rand slumped to its weakest level against the dollar in more than two months as rioting
that started with last week’s arrest of former President Jacob Zuma spread, weighing on the outlook
for an economy already strained by a resurgence of the coronavirus,“ (Bloomberg, 2021).
Ask yourself:
learned this week.
26
Unit 4: The Environment of Business (Week 4: 5 February 2024- 11 February 2024)
Unit overview:
The internal values of a business are a fundamental component of corporate culture and
shapes decisions concerning social responsibility with respect to the external environment.
“Why should we concern ourselves with culture in cross-border business? The answer is that
culture introduces new risks. Acting in a fair and respectful way that does not harm human
rights is the right thing to do. Ethical behaviour is often prescribed within laws and
regulations. Violating laws and regulations has obvious legal consequences. Customers,
governments, and the news media demand ethical behaviour. Firms that commit ethical
blunders attract unwanted attention from opinion leaders. Ethical behaviour is good
business, leading to enhanced corporate image and selling prospects” (Cavusgil; 2020, Pp.
95 & 127)
1. Discuss the dimensions of culture. (MO5)
2. Describe the role of language and religion in culture. (MO5)
3. Describe culture’s effect in international business. (MO5)
4. Identify the managerial Implications of culture. (MO5)
5. Define the various components of ethical behaviour. (MO5)
global ed.5th edition, Pearson, United Kingdom (Chapter 3, 4 and 5)
27
Task Activity Week Due Asses

outcome smen
t
weig
ht
Live Live lecture on the culture and ethics of 1-5 5 February 0.5%
Session Business 2024
Watch Video: Role of Culture in International 1 Preparatio 0%
Business n for Live
Session
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_1v0t
_0QIv8
Read Cavusgil: Chapter 3 and 4 pp.92-151 1-5
Participa Discussion Forum 2: Why is culture an 3 Entry 1 5%
te important component in cross – border Part 1:
business? Relate your response to the Original
African context. Post, by
Week : 6
February
2024
Part 2:
Reply, by
Week 6, 11
February
23:59 SAST
Reading
global ed.5th edition, Pearson, United Kingdom, Chapter 3 and 4, PP.92-151
The above readings explain the value of culture in International Business and the importance
of Ethics, CSR, Sustainability.
Live Session
28
module content.
Instructions
• Time: 19:00-20:00
Meeting link
XJldz09
• Meeting ID: 841 6169 4720
smoothly.
something.
Video
This video provides good examples of shared behaviours, values and cultural clashes. The
example of time Warner and AOL demonstrated on how cultural clashes may not provide a
good business environment.
• The trick is to remember that you supply your currency and the people in other countries
demand your currency.
• There are a wide variety of factors which influence the exchange rate, such as interest rates,
inflation, and the state of politics and the economy in each country.
Video 1: Role of Culture in International Business

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_1v0t_0QIv8
29
Author: Maggie McVilley
Year: 5 August 2020
Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_1v0t_0QIv8
Discussion Forum 2
Due Date:
Entry 1 Part 1: Original Post, by Week : 6 February 2024

Part 2: Reply, 11 February 23:59 SAST
Discussion Question:
Why is culture an important component in cross – border business? Relate your response to
the African context.
Instructions
You are required to engage in a discussion that will count towards your overall module mark.
• You are required to have engaged in this week’s resources and any additional self-study resources
to prepare for the discussion.
• Marks are awarded for the quality of your contribution to the discussion and the
comments/feedback that you provide to your classmates. Refer to the rubric for the criteria
under the Assessments Overview section in your module.
• Please act professionally and respect the views of others in the discussion forum. Avoid using
slang and make use of proper English terminology.
• Contact your facilitator with questions and concerns.
The discussion consists of two parts:
Part 1: Original Post
Entry 1 Part 1: Original Post, by 6 February 2024

Review your class notes and resources, create a thread, and post your thoughts in the discussion forum
in one paragraph between 150 and 200 words. While preparing your post, reflect on the following
questions:
Explain the importance of the macro dimensions and how it affects your firm?
Part 2: Replies
Part 2: Reply, 11 February
Return to the discussion forum and read the answers of your classmates. Select two classmates and
reply to their posts. Responses should be meaningful and recommend an alternative view, or a
rationale for consensus, or suggest additional related readings or videos. Responses should be
between 50 and 100 words each. For each response, consider:
30
a. How sensible/realistic are their recommendations? Does their assessment of the situation
confirm your thoughts and feelings? Do they challenge your thinking in any way? If so, how?
b. Have you any personal experiences which may give you a different perspective on the
situation? If so, how?

“To succeed in business, you must build a brand and never destroy it.” Aliko Dangote,
one of Africa’s richest men and owner of Dangote Group.
With this quote in mind, summarise the week’s findings through some reflection work. You can jot
your thoughts on a piece of paper, record a voice note, or scribble the main insights on a coffee shop
serviette. It is for your personal reflection and does not need to be submitted.
Ask yourself:
learned this week.
31
Unit 5: Theories of International Trade and Investment (Week 5: 12 February -18 February
2024)
Unit overview:
The 20th century witnessed a remarkable growth in international institutions, and nowhere
was this growth greater than in the international trade system. Out of the ashes of a world
economy torn by war and depression, a world trading regime was initiated at mid-century
with the creation of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) in 1947, which began
with a few simple procedures and rules designed to promote the idea that if someone in one
country can produce something that people in another country want to buy, they should have
the right to sell it to them. From this simple beginning, the world trade regime developed by
the end of the century into the most prominent example of cooperation between countries
in the entire international system.

1. Describe the economic basis for trade. (MO6)
2. Compare and contrast free and fair trade. (MO6)
3. Explore how nations can enhance their competitive advantage. (MO6)
4. Understand why and how firms internationalize. (MO7)
5. Explain the strategies internationalizing firms use to gain and sustain competitive
advantage. (MO7)
32
Task Activity Week Due Assessmen

outcom t weight
e
Live Lecture on the economic basis for trade within 1-3 12 0.5%
Sessio the South African context. February
n 2024
Watch Video 1: International Trade Explained 1 Preparatio 0%
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HfN8BnRJ n before
ryQ session
Video 2:
International Trade: Absolute and Comparative
Advantage
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vvfzaq72
wd0
Read Cavusgil: Chapter 5, PP. 152 - 181 1-5 Pre- 0%
readings
before
session
Prepar Quiz 2 Weeks 5- 22 10%
e 6 February
2024
Reading
global ed.5th edition, Pearson, United Kingdom Chapter 5 pp. 152-181p.62-91
The above reading explains the various classical theories and how do nations enhance their
competitive advantage.
Live Session
33
module content.
Instructions
• Time: 18:00-19:00
Meeting link
XJldz09
• Meeting ID: 841 6169 4720
smoothly.
something.
Video
International Trade and Theories
Trade determines what you can buy and where you can work. It can affect hormone levels in a
supermarket chicken, the pictures printed on cigarette packages, and minimum wage laws around the
world. Trade is one of the most complex issues we face today in our globalized economy. Trade
disputes, deficits, tariffs and the institutions that deal with it on an international level are all
dependent on foreign policy.
• From a global perspective, what South Africa products or services have a comparative advantage?
• From a global perspective, what African products or services have a comparative advantage?
Click on the videos here:
Video 1: International Trade Explained
34
Author: #world101 #Trade #GlobalEraIssues
Year: 18 June 2019
Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HfN8BnRJryQ
Video 2: International Trade: Absolute and Comparative Advantage

Author: Werner Lost
Year: 2011
Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vvfzaq72wd0

“No extension of foreign trade will immediately increase the amount of value in a country,
although it will very powerfully contribute to increase the mass of commodities and therefore
the sum of enjoyments” David Ricardo (Political Economist).
Ask yourself:
learned this week.
35
Unit 6: Government Intervention (Week 6: 19 February 2024- 25 February 2024)
Unit overview:
“Governments intervene in trade and investment to achieve political, social, or economic
objectives. They often create trade barriers that benefit specific interest groups, such as
domestic firms, industries, and labour unions. A key rationale is to create jobs by protecting
industries from foreign competition. Governments also intervene to support homegrown
industries or firms. Government intervention is at odds with free trade, the unrestricted
flow of products, services, and capital across national borders. Market liberalization and free
trade are best for supporting economic growth and national living standards,” (Cavusgil,
2020, Pg.212). There have been conflicting views on whether government should play an
active role in the economy.

1. Assess the nature of government intervention. (MO8)

2. Explain between the instruments of government intervention. (MO8)
3. Describe how firms can respond to government trade intervention. (MO8)
4. Understand regional integration and economic blocs. (MO8)
Graduate School of Business Administration, Wits, South Africa
36
Task Activity Week Due Asses
outcome sment
weigh
t
Live Lecture on protectionism within the South African 1-3 19 0.5%
Session context. February
2024
Watch 1 Preparati 0%
on Live
Video 1: Why Do countries restrict trade? Session
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y2X3KPilAt0&t=2s
Video 2: Types of Trade Restrictions 2-4
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_e2gQxN1OBg
Video 3: Trade Blocs
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YDUq0DINhYk&list= 2-4
RDCMUC_xHLAJ_zqPHkmC2aY2MdcA&index=5
Read Cavusgil: Chapter 7 pp. 210-245 1-4 Pre- 0%

reading
Live
Session
Read Case Study 1-4 Pre- 0%
Hobbs, J., & Draper, P. (2015). Poultry tariffs: Levelling the Reading
playing field or rewarding Live
inefficiency? Epilogue (Report No. WBS-2015-4). Session
University of the
Witwatersrand, Graduate School of Business
Administration, Wits, South Africa.
Hobbs, J., & Draper, P. (2015). Poultry tariffs: Levelling the

playing field or rewarding
inefficiency? (Report No. WBS-2015-3). University of the
Witwatersrand,
Graduate School of Business Administration, Wits, South
Africa.
Answer Quiz 2: 4-5 22 10%

and February Auto
submit 2024 mated
/
Submit Syndicate Assignment All Units 29 32%

February
2024
37
Reading
Graduate School of Business Administration, Wits, South Africa.
The above readings explain the reason why government’s restrict trade and how companies
react to trade restrictions, particularly the case of the South African poultry industry.
Live Session
module content.
Instructions
• Time: 19:00 – 20:00
• Meeting link
XJldz09
• Meeting ID: 841 6169 4720
38
smoothly.
something.
Video
These videos provide the types of tools that might be used to restrict trade, and the effects of trade
restrictions. Video 3 will provide the argument that certain countries find it more expedient to work
in trade blocs.
• How government intervenes by way of protectionist policies?

• The poultry industry in South Africa and the African Growth and Opportunities Act.
• The Brexit debacle is a rejection to regionalism?
Video 1: Why Do countries restrict trade?

Author: MJMFOODIE
Year: 18 April 2010
Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y2X3KPilAt0&t=2s
Video 2: Types of Trade Restrictions

Author: MJMFOODIE
Year: 28 June 2011
Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_e2gQxN1OBg
Video 3: Trade Blocs
Author: MJMFOODIE
Year: 23 June 2011
Link:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YDUq0DINhYk&list=RDCMUC_xHLAJ_zqPHkmC2aY
2MdcA&index=5

“Nobody wants to buy something that was made by exploiting somebody else,” – Jerry Greenfield:
Fairtrade Co-founder.
39
Ask yourself:
learned this week.
40
UNIT 7: Revision and examination (Week 5 –6: 19 February – 25 February 2024)
Unit Overview
This final unit is reserved for revising the material covered in the previous units (MO 1-8) and
concludes with the examination.
Unit-level Outcomes
There are no unit-level outcomes specific to this unit. However, all the previous unit-level
outcomes are relevant for the examination.
Prescribed Readings
There are no prescribed readings and supplementary specific to this unit. However, all the
previous units’ prescribed readings are relevant for the examination.
41
Activities and Assessments
# Task Activity Description Due day Mar Unit-level Notional

ks Outcomes hours
alloc covered
ated
1 Revise Study and consolidate the learning from 0% All unit-level Varies per
units outcomes in individual
the module student’s
prior
studying
and
personal
study
characteris
tics and
preference
s
2 Attend Revision and exam scope 19 February 0% Exam Scope 30 Minutes
Live 2024 provided in
Session 20:00-20:30 Live Session
dealing with
Unit Level
Outcomes.
3 Complete Examination 6 March 40% All unit-level 3 hours
2024 outcomes in Timed
9h00-22h00 the module
42

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PDBA Online

INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS AND ECONOMICS

Module Facilitator: DR RENEE HORNE

At the end of this module, students should be able to:

1. Explain the basic features linked to the business activity.

Addressing the Core Themes of the PDBA

Curriculum tied to context in South Africa

Integration with other PDBA subjects

Quizzes (there will be 2 15% QUIZ 1 – 1 February The marks will be

Syndicate assignment 32% 29 February 2024 The marks will be

Examination 40% 6 March 2024 Subject to all exam

Requirement: The student is required to answer a maximum of 5 questions which can be in

Purpose: The objective of online participation is to assess student’s ability to analyse,

The following rubric will be used to assess online participation:

Purpose: The syndicate assignment is designed to test managerial problem-solving skills,

Deadline: 29 February 2024 at 23:59

Criterion Mark Allocation

Use of the theory covered in the course. 30

Application of the theory to the relevant case study 30

Research and use of relevant data to complement situation 30

Structure, layout, style and referencing 10

This assignment is related to the PDBA theme Context in South Africa.

Plagiarism and Related Submission Requirements

Pass Mark Requirements

Unit Week Topics

0 0 Module 0: Discussion -- Ask the Facilitator” discussion forum on Canvas

1 1 The firm’s business activity: internal and external variables

3 3 The Global Financial System

4 4 The environment of International Business: (Part 1) Culture, Ethics,

5 5 The Environment of International Business: (Part 2) Theories of

7 7 Revision & Examination

Office tel: (011) 717 3612

• Replies to emails can be expected within 3 business days.

1. Identify the basic features linked to business activity. (MO1)

Task Activity Week Due Assessment weight

As you work through this resource, consider the following:

• Click on the link below

• Topic: International Business and Economics PDMBA

• Meeting ID: 841 6169 4720

As you work through this resource, consider the following:

• The competitiveness of South African firms

Click on the video here:

Replies (x2): by 21 January 2024 23:59

The discussion consists of two parts:

Part 1: Original Post

Week 1, Tuesday 16 January 2024

Week 1, Sunday 21 January 2024

The Serviette Summary

Unit 2: Globalisation of markets (Week 22 January 2024 – 28 January 2024)

Task Activity Week Due Assessm

Prepare Quiz 1: 1-4 QUIZ 1 - 5%

• Chapter 2 pp.62-91: Globalisation of Markets and Internationalisation of the firm

As you work through this resource, consider the following:

• Click on the link below

• Topic: International Business and Economics PDMBA

• Meeting ID: 841 6169 4720

As you work through this resource, consider the following:

• The competitiveness of South African firms

Click on the video here:

The Serviette Summary

At the end of this week, you will be able to:

1. Assess the exchange rates and currencies in international business. (MO4)

Task Activity Week Due Assessment