Lesson 1: Course Introduction and Globalization

Globalization has become a popular buzzword with many definitions, many theories to explain its impact, and even many disagreements on what trends the world is seeing. In order to start our class journey diving into the world of international management, we must first start by establishing just what globalization is and just what impacts it has. In this lesson, you will begin to put together a working definition, examine common trends and theories, look at different impacts around the world, and determine if the world really is becoming “flat”—that is, developing a more even playing field across countries and cultures.

Learning Objectives

After completing this lesson, students will be able to do the following:

• Create a thorough working definition for the term globalization.
• Apply this working definition of globalization to a current issue in the news.
• Identify and describe the characteristics of a global firm through the use of academic research tools.
• Identify the impacts of globalization on firms (both multinational and domestic).

Lesson Readings and Activities

By the end of this lesson, make sure you have completed the readings and activities found in the course schedule.