Growth, Location and Sustainable Development (MSB305)
Businesses and organizations do not operate in isolation. They are deeply intertwined within intricate networks and socio-economic systems. This integration plays a pivotal role in determining their success and transition towards sustainable operations. Being part of such systems means that any changes within these systems can influence factors like input availability, demand magnitude, and even the very conditions under which they operate, as defined by institutional frameworks.
This course delves deep into the modern perspective of economic growth that goes beyond just looking at individual firms. Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of the significance of innovation, geographical location, and temporal factors in the processes of economic development. A key emphasis is placed on the shift towards a more sustainable economy.
By integrating concepts from Innovation and Transition Studies, Regional Science, Complex System Theories, and Knowledge Dynamics, students will be equipped with the analytical tools necessary to evaluate the economic and technological development strategies of individual firms, regions, and entire nations. Furthermore, they will be able to draw vital insights that can guide the design of strategies at each of these levels.
Although this course is a component of the minor titled "Economic Development", it remains accessible to all interested students.
NB! This is an elective course and may be cancelled if fewer than 10 students are enrolled by August 20th for the autumn semester.
Course description for study year 2024-2025. Please note that changes may occur.
Course code
MSB305
Version
1
Credits (ECTS)
10
Semester tution start
Autumn
Number of semesters
1
Exam semester
Autumn
Language of instruction
English
Content
Subject areas that are most likely covered are:
- A perspective beyond the boundaries of the firm
- Theories of economic development including human capital, innovation, institutions, agglomeration, urbanization, complexity, diversification
- Interfirm linkages, networks, and spillovers
- Sustainability and transformation
Learning outcome
Knowledge
Students will learn:
- How and why a system-based perspective is crucial to understanding the development of firms and economies
- How and why economies growth
- How and why economic activities locate in various ways in space
- How and why knowledge and innovation are crucial for the transition toward more sustainable economic practices
Skills
- Applying multilevel, network, complexity, and evolutionary thinking to economic problems
- Working with and summarizing the contemporary academic literature
- Assessing economic development and growth from a sustainability perspective
Required prerequisite knowledge
Recommended prerequisites
Exam
In-class Group Presentation and Oral Examination
Form of assessment | Weight | Duration | Marks | Aid |
---|---|---|---|---|
In-class Group Presentation | 45/100 | Letter grades | ||
Oral Examination | 55/100 | Letter grades |
Coursework requirements
- Completed and handed in on time all individual & group assignments or quizzes during the semester
- Contributed to and participated in (including presence during) the presentation of group work
Course teacher(s)
Course coordinator:
Tom BrökelCourse teacher:
Yong Hao TanCourse teacher:
Tom BrökelStudy Program Director:
Yuko OnozakaMethod of work
Overlapping courses
Course | Reduction (SP) |
---|---|
Perspectives on Strategic Innovation (MØA305_1) | 10 |