Course Description
This course developed students' knowledge and understanding of the core principles of international trade. Students utilise critical and creative thinking skills, apply relevant theory, contrast historical and contemporary examples of trade agreements, and evaluate policy documentation and actions by state actors. Through examination of contemporary and historic case studies, readings, and reflection on current events, students will identify and evaluate the factors that shape global trade, conduct policy analysis, and connect key theories to current world events.
Learning Outcomes
- Evaluate the impacts of trade in the contemporary world by examining the roles of global institutions in multilateral trading systems, analysing the economic benefits derived from trade, or assessing the social factors affected by trade.
- Explain the components of international trade by examining historic and contemporary examples.
- Analyse the influence of key actors and institutions on multilateral trade, considering their roles, motivations, and impact on trade policy outcomes.
- Critically examine the practical implementation and application of multilateral trade in real-world contexts, considering their effectiveness, challenges, and potential benefits.
- Demonstrate effective skills in writing, research, and presentation to construct well-founded policy arguments and analyses on international trade issues.
Learning Experience
Topics
- International Relations Theory
- Understanding the International System
- Politics, Trade, and Power
- The International System Since WWII
- International Political Economy (IPE)
- Economic Diplomacy
- IPE and Economic Diplomacy
- International and Supra-National Bodies
- Global Value Chains
- Domestic Requirements for Free Trade
- Trade Policy and Domestic Economy
- Negotiation
- Change and Continuity
- Trade and Strategic Alliances
Development Team
Vutha Hing
Course Author
Simon Nagy
Learning Designer
Lead
Zac Vandersman
Digital Education Developer
Lead
Assessments
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Quizzes
Multiple Choice Questions
Short comprehension quizzes provide learns with ongoing feedback on their understanding of the course content.
30%
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Case study
Case Study
Learners utilise international events and explain the actions using key theories of international relations, interpret and analyse academic literature and perspectives.
20%
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Essay
Essay
Learners role play senior negotiator and assess how their geographic location, international bodies, risk and rewards, potential influence and other relevant factors impact on international trade negotiations.
20%
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Business proposal
Proposal
Learners develop a business proposal and devise a global value chain derived from one of the nation’s key imports/exports.
30%
Snapshots
Learning Resources
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The international system since 1945
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Formation of the European Union - Timeline
Timeline

