Scotch College

COMMERCE Year 10 — 2012

International Business [Semester Unit]

Rationale 

Commerce is increasingly becoming internationalized.  Barriers to trade are disappearing with goods, money and 

people moving from country to country with relative ease.  Being successful in business and commerce requires knowledge and understanding of different cultures, economies and people.  As over seventy per cent of Australia’s 

trade is conducted with Asia, this course has an Asian focus.  Its intention is to develop an awareness of the 

importance of cultural understanding for the success of commerce and business in today’s globalized world. 

Student Outcomes 

• understand the commercial relationships Australia has developed over time 
• identify the different measures of economic growth 
• investigate and comprehend the changing nature of international relations 
• develop specific knowledge of an Asian country through a case study examining its economy, culture,
  history, government and society 
• develop an understanding of cultural barriers to trade and commerce 
• develop, in small groups, an international business proposal 
• establish teamwork skills using DFAT’s business export competition 

Course Content 

• Commercial Relationships (historical and contemporary):  This topic will examine the commercial relationships Australia has developed, predominantly since colonization.  It will begin with consideration for the indigenous economy and conclude with an investigation of relations with current and future super powers America and China.
• Asian Countries (their growth and relevance to Australia):  This topic would continue with an examination of Asia’s relevance to Australia’s commerce.  It will involve a case study of an Asian country’s culture, government, and society and consider its commercial relevance to Australia. 
• China:  History, culture, economy and trade relations with Australia. This topic will extend the concept 
• of Asia’s economic importance to examine the significance of China to Australia and the world’s economy. It will incorporate study of business opportunities in one of the world’s largest and fastest growing economies. 
  
• The Global Village (Australia’s place):  How important is cultural diversity and understanding in developing effective commercial relationships? Are trade relations affected by historical/military links? This topic will examine these and other questions regarding Australia’s place and role in the 21st century. 
• Business Links and Markets in Asia:  This topic will investigate the current and future commercial and business opportunities within the Asian region. 

Assessment 

Examination 

Applied Exercises 

Case Study 

Report on International Business Proposal