International Study Visit (B-KUL-HMH36F)

Aims
This course evaluates the following learning outcomes:
The student
1.2 (EIR + EIB) formulates, on the basis of scientific knowledge on and insight into international relations, and in particular international and European political and economic relations, a well-founded solution for operational problems and questions of internationally oriented companies and when doing so, takes into account the specific international and European business context and environment.
1.3 (EIR + EIB) formulates, on the basis of scientific knowledge on and insight into foreign direct investments, a solution for operational international investment problems and questions, and when doing so, takes into account the specific international and European business context and environment.
1.4 (EIR + EIB) reflects critically on the international and European political, economic and institutional context in which companies operate, on the impact this context has on the functioning of companies and how companies can anticipate on this.
2.1 (EIR + EIB) analyses the international and European dimensions of the economy and the strategic problems and questions this imposes on international firms.
2.3 (EIR + EIB) takes and defends on the basis of scientific knowledge and insight into the international and European dimension of economic life a well-founded position on current European and international political, social and economic problems.
2.4 (EIR + EIB) reflects critically on the international and European economic, political and institutional context of an international firm and on how business strategies can be adapted to that context in order to improve the functioning of the company.
4.1 (EIR + EIB) reflects critically on European and international economic, social and political problems and developments and the challenges they might pose for international business, trade flows and policy.
4.2 (EIR + EIB) describes and interprets trends in the international economy and politics and is able to develop a solid position on matters related to that, thereby taking into account the consequences for business, trade flows and policy.
5.1 collects and consults sources and data purposefully and critically, on the basis of a given management problem or social question and takes into account the characteristics of the type of source or data used (popularizing or scientific source, primary or secondary data).
5.3 chooses the most relevant research method for the investigation of a management problem or social question and substantiates this choice.
5.4 assesses the consequences of a selected methodology for the reliability and validity of the results, and takes these into account when drawing conclusions and proposing solutions.
5.6 synthesizes research results acquired on the basis of a critical analysis (and integration) of information from relevant sources and data, and substantiates solutions for a complex management problem or social question.
7.1 takes on a diplomatic and honest position and can reach an agreement that takes into account the interest of all parties involved through negotiation and mediation.
7.2 discusses the social, ethic and sustainability aspects of management, analyses a policy on the basis of these aspects and formulates suggestions for improvement.
7.3 takes initiative, is flexible, shows responsibility and can work independently in complex and unpredictable contexts.
7.4 is able to utilize his/her acquired knowledge and his/her ability to think analytically, synthetically, abstractly and/or creatively in a flexible and authentic way in specific and/or complex situations.
7.5 is critical and not afraid to question himself/herself and his/her environment.
8.1 formulates, as a member of a team, the interdisciplinary problem that is at the basis of the project, analyses the content of the project, the circumstances surrounding the project and factors that will influence the course of the project, and uses this information to formulate the (general) goals of the project.
8.2 organises, as a member of a team, the project and sets up a detailed and realistic plan, taking into account the context of the question, the scope of the project, the conditions, the limitations, the expected quality and the means available.
8.3 follows, both individually and as a member of a team, the arranged plans and applies time management techniques.
8.4 takes responsibility for his/her role in the team and carries out his/her part of the project on time.
8.5 assesses, as a member of a team, the project, monitors the progress of the project, deals with uncertainty, gives feedback and formulates points of action and points of improvement throughout the project.
8.6 participates constructively in meetings with the team and with others who are involved in the project.
8.7 assesses his/her own input critically and evaluates, as a member of a team, the course and the result of the project.
9.1 informs experts and laymen correctly and structurally on his/her general and/or specialised knowledge, both in speaking and writing.
9.2 chooses and uses the appropriate communication channels and means and adjusts both the communication content and style to the audience and the communication goal.
9.3 communicates convincingly, shortly and concisely his/her vision and actions in different contexts and accounts for his/her choices, both in speaking and writing.
9.4 substantiates clearly and convincingly.
9.5 is aware that communication is a two-way street, asks for and anticipates input or feedback of the supervisor(s), listener(s) or reader(s).
10.1 (EIR + EIB) keeps up with new developments and trends in European and international politics, institutions, economy, trade and business.
11.1 is aware of the rapidly evolving knowledge society that he/she will enter and therefore understands the need for maintenance and improvement of acquired knowledge, skills and competences and acquisition of new knowledge, skills and competences.
11.2 is willing to improve his/her knowledge, skills and competences in order to shape his/her life professionally, personally, socially and civilly.
11.3 actively looks for opportunities to broaden and deepen his/her knowledge, skills and competences, in order to anticipate the (evolving) requirements of the work environment.
Previous knowledge
There is no specific previous knowledge required for this course.
Is included in these courses of study
- Master in de handelswetenschappen (dag + avond, programma voor studenten gestart vóór 2024-2025) (Brussel) (Specialisatie Europese en internationale betrekkingen) 60 ects.
- Master of Business Administration (Brussels) (Track European and International Relations) 60 ects.
Activities
6 ects. International Study Visit (B-KUL-HMH36f)
Content
This course covers the various dimensions of international and European business:
1. The economic environment in which an international firm operates.
2. The business pillar (how an international firm operates in this environment).
3. The political/institutional environment in which an international firm operates.
The course consists of introductory classes in Brussels and a four-days stay in Geneva. During the stay in Geneva students attend a number of lectures on the various dimensions of international business, organized by the United Nations and other organizations.
This is an optional/elective course in the MBA/Master EIR/EIB programme. As an alternative, students can register for the course 'Seminar on European Business'. The number of students that can opt for the International Study Visit is limited to 30 for practical reasons. There is a minimum of 20 students per study visit. If the minimum is not reached, the study visit will be cancelled.
Each student has to hand in a motivation letter (1 page). Attention should be paid to arguments why the International Study Visit is an attractive option. If necessary, students will be selected based on the quality of their motivation letter and their grades obtained in the BBA.
The cost of the study visit to Geneva is currently estimated at 500 euro.
This amount includes:
- travelling expenses (Brussels- Geneva and Geneva-Brussels) and
- lodging (youth hostel in Geneva (breakfast included)
This amount does not include lunches, drinks and personal expenses.
Additional practical guidelines will be announced at the start of the academic year and will be made available through TOLEDO. If you wish to include this course in your individual programme, please take into account that there will be an extra study cost (see above). The procedure and deadline for paying this cost will be announced at the start of the academic year.
Course material
Slides and additional information on Toledo
https://webapps.odisee.be/Ancor/SSM/Pages/BekijkSSM.aspx?OID=23891
Evaluation
Evaluation: International Study Visit (B-KUL-H75033)
Explanation
Determination of the final grades
The grades are determined by the lecturer as communicated via Toledo and stated in the examination schedule. The result is calculated and communicated as a whole number on a scale of 20..
Information about retaking exams
Second examination opportunity
The features of the evaluation and determination of grades are identical to those of the first examination opportunity, as described above. Note however that the grades for peer-assessment and cooperation during lectures are automatically transferred from the first to the second exam period.