IB5020 Cross Cultural Leadership

Required Texts: 

a.       Geert and Gert Jan Hofstede, Culture and Organizations – Software of the Mind, New York: McGraw-Hill, 2005. ISBN 0-07-143959-5

b.      Philip Harris, Robert Moran and Sarah Moran, Managing Cultural Differences: Global Leadership Strategies for the Twenty-First Century, 6^th edition, Houston: Gulf Publishing, 2004. ISBN 0-7506-7736-8

c.       Additional readings and case studies will be provided during class or posted on the course Outlook folder.

 Course Description:

        The purpose of this course is to introduce students to the concept of culture and its impact on international business leadership and management. The impact of culture on concepts of leadership, values, expectations, and patterns of communication will be examined, both to demonstrate the importance of cultural sensitivity in global management and to assist students in developing their own strategies for effectively communicating and negotiating with individuals from other cultures. The course will also examine a variety of ethical and evolving multiethnic workplace issues, and discuss appropriate management styles for multicultural organizations. Students will learn effective ways to research specific cultures and communications styles in order to prepare themselves for cross-cultural encounters. Through the use of case studies and role-playing simulations, students will have an opportunity to apply their understanding of cultural and ethical issues to realistic business situations.

 Course Outcomes:

On completion of this course, students will be able to:

 1.  Define, describe and analyze the cultural values, influences and motivations that influence management and leadership styles in International Business. 

2. Critically discuss the effect of technology and the mass media on contemporary national cultures. 

3. Demonstrate through oral and written presentations as well as classroom interaction a heightened awareness of different communications styles and an understanding of the strategies needed for communicating effectively in cross-cultural situations. 

4. Identify important global business trends, with particular focus on those relating to cultural diversity and intercultural training. 

5. Develop skills and enhanced abilities to conduct focused research of specific cultures in order to prepare for cross-cultural encounters, business visits or overseas deployments. 

6. Understand the management concept of "cultural synergy" and the key role of cross-cultural leadership in transnational business. 

7. Discuss the ethical issues involved in dealing with individuals from other cultures and develop their own sense of values and priorities in conducting international business. 

8. Understand the need to think critically and assess the credibility of sources when conducting academic and business research.