Revised by: Rector of Umeå School of Business and Economics, 2020-10-08
Contents
The course focuses on developing intercultural competence using different analytical approaches to define and analyze various cultural components prevalent in business. In areas such as leadership, organizational behavior, decision-making, communication and business negotiations, a cultural awareness is particularly needed. Furthermore, the essential nature of culture as a static and bounded phenomenon is critically examined.
The course is given and examined in English.
Expected learning outcomes
After completing this course, the student should be able to:
identify and appreciate cultural differences and similarities (e.g. regional similarities in the Nordic countries) in global business processes,
critically examine the concept of business culture from alternative theoretical perspectives, analysing sources for relevance and credibility
analyse and communicate key business issues in a cross-cultural context,
explain and evaluate the influence of culture on managerial issues such as leadership, negotiation or decision-making
communicate central concepts for the course in English, both orally and in writing
Required Knowledge
60 credits in Business Administration. At Basic level (A-level) and Intermediate level (B-level) or equivalent whereof approved 45 credits.
Proficiency in English equivalent to Swedish upper secondary course English B/6.
Form of instruction
The learning is supported by lectures, cases and written and oral assignments.
Examination modes
Examination consists of active participation in seminars, completion of written group assignments and a written individual hall exam. A passing grade is required for each part. All examinations will be in English.
See each separate module and below.
The following grading system is used: Pass with distinction (Väl godkänd, VG, 75% or more), Pass (Godkänd, G, 50% or more) and Fail (Underkänd U, less than 50%).
Grades on the course are awarded when the student has passed all examinations and compulsory course elements. The course is given and examined in English. To receive the grade Pass with distinction (VG) in the 30 credits course consisting of four modules of the same size, the student must have achieved Pass with distinction (VG) in at least three out of four modules. In shorter courses for example 7,5 credit courses, 15 credit courses or 22,5 credits courses Pass with distinction (VG) is given when the student has achieved at least 75% of the total weighted points.
A student who does not pass at the time of the written examination will be offered an opportunity to sit a further examination within two months. Beyond that, additional examination opportunities normally arise every academic year, one week prior to the start of the autumn term. If required by specific circumstances, the Director of Studies may decide on other forms of examination
In case of failure on seminar participation or individual and group assignments, compensating assignments must be completed in accordance with instructions given, no later than two weeks after the completion of the module. Mandatory assignments (seminars, written assignments, cases, computer assignments etc.) that have not been handed in within stipulated time must be done the next time the course is offered. If the form of examination does not permit repetition other forms of re-examination may be used.
When a student has failed an examination on two occasions, he or she has a right to have another grading teacher. A written request for an alternative examiner should be handed to the director of studies no later than two weeks before the next examination opportunity.
A student who has passed an examination can not redo the examination to get a higher grade.
If a student fails to present a photo ID at the occasion of a written exam in an exam room will not be allowed to take the exam.
Disciplinary action may be taken against students who uses unauthorized help aids or in some other way tries to mislead on a test or when another type of task is being evaluated. Rules and regulations concerning the production of academic texts and correct referencing will be applicable to all written assignments. (see instructions in the thesis manual, Thesis Writing in Business Administration). Urkund records may be used for control. In addition, Umeå University rules and regulations for education and research applies.
Educational activities are designed to facilitate students towards achieving expected learning outcomes and can explain, supplement and provide contrast to the course literature and other relevant course materials.
Other regulations
Academic credit transfers are according to the University credit transfer regulations.
Literature
Valid from:
2020 week 52
Literature
Intercultural communication in the global workplace Varner Iris I., Beamer Linda 5. ed. : New York : McGraw-Hill : 2011 : xxiv, 503 s. : ISBN: 978-0-07-128912-2 (hft.) (international ed.) Mandatory Search the University Library catalogue
Scientific articles available from Umeå University databases (approx. 40-60 pages) will be added at the start of the module.
