Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in International Business

Teaching & Assessment

The programme teaching and learning strategy is designed to allow the learner to progress through the theoretical and practical concepts in an orderly and logical fashion. The assessment strategy is planned to ensure practical application of the core principles of the module and facilitates feedback, which underpins the overall learning experience.

The primary purpose of Independent College Dublin’s strategy is that teaching and assessment support learning. In addition, assessment supports standards based on appropriate learning outcomes. The programme teaching and assessment strategy is informed by the QQI Business Award Standards. The programme learning outcomes (PLO), the module learning outcomes (MLO), and the graduate attributes also inform this process.

Throughout the programme, learners will experience a varied range of teaching and learning strategies, which are selectively chosen, based on level, module content and suitability to assessment. Most modules will primarily be delivered through a mix of lectures and practical workshops, with tutorials in place to support where necessary. Typically, material will be presented during lectures and workshops, with supporting documentation available via Moodle to learners.

It is envisaged that the learners will assimilate much of the material through problem solving and practical exercises. Emphasis will be placed on allowing the learners to examine the exercise problem descriptions and try possible solutions in the workshops. Tutorials will be used to allow the learners to get help, reinforce more difficult subject matter and provide learners with the opportunity for assistance to a specific problem.

Teaching will focus on the learner applying problem solving skills to existing programme material. Skills will be developed through a variety of mechanisms, for example:

• Integrated tutorials with industry engagement.
• Problem-based learning exercises with trade practitioners.
• Co-delivering and guest lecturing on focused syllabus content.
• Application workshop sessions, diagnostic and troubleshooting skills.
• Case study analysis, review, critiquing – reflective learning and writing skills.
• Blended learning and Flipped Classroom delivery
• Online synchronous and asynchronous delivery of lecturers.
• Directed e-learning

Formative assessment will from an integral part of the learning journey or the learner with feedback being provided on the solutions to problems posed in class and through assignment being critiqued and challenged in the educational environment. This will allow for risk assessment and a continuous improvement process to become part of their solution design.

Additionally, the teaching and learning strategy is informed by Independent College’s overall teaching and learning strategy, the scheme of assessment and the module specific teaching and learning strategy.

At the conclusion of the programme, students should be able to:

• Demonstrate an in-depth knowledge of essential business knowledge, theoretical models and principles within the core aspects of business.
• Assess knowledge and information, tools and techniques in a critical manner to effectively adapt to changing business environments.
• Critically assess the fundamental elements of business in particular accountancy and finance, IT and management and marketing how they are inter-related with other functional areas in order to enable effective strategic business decisions.
• Be able to identify and harness new business models in pursuit of business objectives and to optimise personal productivity.
• Evaluate the responsibilities of business professionals in a professional manner, identifying potential ethical dilemmas and the evaluation of possible solutions.
• Demonstrate an extensive set of acquired business skills, including the capability to participate creatively and responsibly in teams.
• Exhibit command of research processes, and the ability to successfully apply this in an applied business project in a professional setting.
• Reflect on and demonstrate a level of academic ability at Level 8, allowing further academic or professional development.

On successful completion of the programme, graduates will have the following attributes:

• Ability to generate, analyse and review data relevant for strategic management decisions in the area of international business;
• Be effective decision-makers in international business;
• Ability to review developments in the field of international business and adept in developing solutions to problems;
• Be knowledgeable in the core areas of international business/international management;
• Undertake critical evaluation of evidence in support of an argument or proposition;
• Be able to apply appropriate management theories, principles and data;
• Be effective communicators of business and management ideas, theories and solutions;
• Cognisant of the ethical implications of doing international business;
• Able to retrieve relevant information from a variety of sources; and
• Effective independent learners and team members through participation in group scenarios

Successful completion of the degree course requires the application of knowledge and understanding of international business and management to complex issues through critical and analytical approaches to management theory and practice.

Upon completion of the programme, learners will have the ability to critically evaluate management techniques, tools and models across a variety of international business contexts. It prepares graduates to develop a wide range of skills and competencies required to function effectively when doing business across borders and employ personal and interpersonal skills that are relevant to management.

The main objectives of the programme are as follows:

• To develop specialised, practical knowledge and understanding of key areas of management.
• To facilitate the application of knowledge and understanding of international business and management to complex issues through critical and analytical approaches to management theory, practice, and research.
• To enhance the ability to critically evaluate management techniques, tools, and models across a variety of international business contexts.
• To develop analytical and decision-making skills.
• To develop personal and interpersonal skills that are relevant to management and communicate the arising issues in written and oral form.
• To equip learners with the necessary knowledge and skills to achieve the appropriate level of undergraduate award and continue their lifelong learning development.
• To develop a specialised understanding of international business management in a variety of industries and business settings such as multinational companies, SMEs or emerging markets.
• To facilitate the acquisition of a wide range of skills and competencies required to function effectively when doing business across borders.
• To be able to gauge and judge the potential impact of relevant global influences and drivers, such as technological, economic, or political changes, within international business practices.
• To make a meaningful and practical contribution to organisations operating in a turbulent business environment

The achievement of these aims will provide the Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in International Business graduates with the knowledge and skills required to develop and build a career in International Business.

The major multinational companies in Ireland continue to offer graduate programmes. Start-ups and fast growing SMEs are looking to hire talented graduate professionals who can illustrate their growth potential with business.

The combination of these employment prospects, both nationally and internationally, and the broad nature of this programme, facilitates a wide range of potential employment opportunities for graduates. Graduates will be equipped to work in global business, international marketing, business consultancy, international trade, exporting and related areas.