Department of European Studies & Modern Languages, Unit Catalogue 2008/09 |
EU10118 German business environment 1: economic and industrial environment |
| Credits: 6 |
| Level: Certificate |
| Semester: 1 |
| Assessment: CW 33%, ES 67% |
| Requisites: |
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Aims: To introduce students to key concepts of the German economic environment. Further to examine the integration of the former East into the economy of the West and assess the position of Germany in the globalising world economy.
Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to: * demonstrate understanding of historical developments in the West German economy both before 1989/90 and since; * show an understanding of the fundamental principles and structures of the social market economy and key shifts and changes over time in German history; * appreciate the impact of unification on the German economy and discuss its significance in relation to pressures brought to bear by European enlargement and integration and by globalisation. Skills: Skills in critical analysis, conceptual thinking, precision in the use of written and spoken language, exercise of independent judgement, reasoned argument, teamwork, and the planning/conduct/reporting of non-quantitative research are taught and assessed in this unit. Language skills are developed in this unit. Content: Post-war economic reconstruction in West Germany, the social market economy, the West German economic miracle, impact of oil crises, German unification and its impact, economic integration post 1989/90, the role of the 'Treuhand', the impact of the combined forces of unification, European integration and enlargement and globalisation on the German economy. |