MBA - BUS 525a - Kings - SRezvani - 1DQ ALA - 191220 PDF

MASTER IN BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION PROGRAM
BUS 525a
Strategic Management in a Globalized
Economy
Syllabus
BUS 525a Syllabus
Table of Contents
Westcliff University Mission Statements 3
Welcome to BUS 525a Strategic Management in a Globalized Economy 4
Course Description 5
Course Learning Outcomes (CLOs) Linked to Program Outcomes 6
CLA Linking Table 7
Detailed Description of Each Grading Criteria: 8
Rubrics 12
Detailed Course Outline 17
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Westcliff University Mission Statements
Westcliff University
Westcliff University’s mission is to educate, inspire, and empower students from around the
world to acquire the competencies to excel personally and professionally through innovative,
high-quality distance and campus programs.
College of Business Mission Statement

Westcliff University’s College of Business mission is to deliver a high-quality business
education that can improve the lives of students, personally and professionally. The College’s
teaching philosophy is to vitalize business concepts by offering a curriculum in a pragmatic and
relevant framework. Through the use of innovative teaching methods, students are enabled to
enhance their business acumen in an ethical and socially responsible way.
MBA Program Mission Statement

Westcliff University’s mission for the Master of Business Administration program is to offer a
broad spectrum of core concepts in ancillary fields of business that prepare students to lead
people and projects in an innovative and creative environment, the program enables students to
develop and implement business strategic initiatives in. an ethical and professional manner.
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BUS 525a Syllabus
Professor: Dr. Schahrzade Rezvani

Email: [email protected]
Office Hours: By Appointment only
University Phone Number: 888-491-8686
Welcome to BUS 525a Strategic Management in a Globalized Economy
Hello Students and Welcome to Class,
I am looking forward to working with each of you as we embark on this journey together. Please
feel free to contact me anytime with questions about the course and the assignments described in
this syllabus. I am also happy to provide additional clarification of any assignment, so please do
not hesitate to ask questions.
I will generally return e-mail messages within 24 hours. Communication between Students and
Instructors is paramount to the overall quality of a course.
Assessing the individual needs of a student will make the difference between a mediocre and
successful experience, therefore each Professor at Westcliff University has a unique and personal
instruction style that focuses on increasing Student knowledge. As an Instructor, I try to foster an
open learning environment that leads to problem solutions through concept application. My goal
is to show students the many different possibilities available through research and study while
providing my own professional insight. It is my sincere desire to assist you in rising to the
rigorous challenge presented by this course.
Additionally, if you are unable to participate in class discussion during a particular week, or are
unable to meet a deadline, I require that you contact me in advance to discuss this matter.
Instructor Biography
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BUS 525a Syllabus
Course Description
COURSE NAME Strategic Management in a Globalized Economy
CODE BUS 525a
UNITS 3
CAMPUS Kings College
TERM Spring 2020-3
LENGTH OF CLASS 8 weeks
SESSION START 01/06/2020
SESSION END 03/01/2020
LECTURE (Day/Time) Monday 6:30-8:30AM NPT
DISCUSSION (Day/Time) Wednesday 6:30-8:00AM NPT
INSTRUCTOR Dr. Schahrzade Rezvani
CONTACT INFORMATION [email protected]
This course will focus on strategic development and integration of
knowledge in functional areas of management. Students will be asked
to examine the strategic role of information systems, marketing and
COURSE DESCRIPTION management within modern business organizations, organizing,
managing, and controlling information systems, and marketing and
management in order to develop an understanding for strategic
frameworks.
Hitt, M. A., Ireland, R. D., & Hoskisson, R. E. (2019). Strategic
management: Concepts and cases: Competitiveness and globalization
REQUIRED TEXT
(13th ed.). Boston, MA: Cengage
ISBN 978-0-357-03383-8
The course is conducted in a hybrid modality. Students interact with
each other and with the faculty in a classroom setting and in an online
METHOD OF INSTRUCTION
learning system. Learning will be facilitated through lecture-
discussions, presentations, cooperative learning, and case studies.
Student outcomes are measured through professional individual
assignments, discussion postings, comprehensive learning
SCOPE
assessments, and class participation. This ensures that the scope of this
course will be a closed cycle.
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Course Learning Outcomes (CLOs) Linked to Program Outcomes

Learning outcomes are statements that describe significant and essential learning that learners
have achieved, and can reliably demonstrate at the end of the course. Learning outcomes identify
what the learner will know and be able to do by the end of a course – the essential and enduring
knowledge, abilities (skills) and attitudes (values, dispositions) that constitute the integrated
learning needed by a graduate of this course. The learning outcomes for this course summarize
what you can expect to learn, and how this course is tied directly to the educational outcomes of
your MBA degree.
MBA (K) Knowledge

Course Learning Outcomes (CLOs) Program (S) Skill
Outcomes (A) Attitude
1. Describe all facets of a sound business strategy and the reasoning

behind strategy implementation and execution. Explain the four
1, 2, 3, 6 K, S, A
strategic approaches for setting a company apart and decide what
how each strategy can gain a sustainable competitive advantage.
2. Describe how a clear strategic vision and initiatives can help a
1, 2, 3, 6 K, A
company achieve performance targets in the US and abroad.
3. Evaluate a company’s strategic plan and assess a company's
strengths and weaknesses with regards to market opportunities
1, 2, 3, 6, 8 S, A
and external threats. Examine how a diverse perspective and
contribute to the decision-making process.
4. Compare the five generic strategies. Describe why some of these

strategies work better in certain kinds of industry and 1, 2, 3, 6, 8 K, A
competitive conditions than in others.
5. Describe the strategic benefits and risks of expanding a

company's horizontal scope through mergers and acquisitions.
1, 2, 3, 5,6 K, S, A
Explain when and how strategic alliances are used and how they
can facilitate the development outsourcing plans.
6. Describe reasons that companies choose to compete in
international markets and how to decide on major strategic 1, 2, 3, 5,6 K, S, A
options for entering and competing in foreign markets.
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CLA Linking Table

Comprehensive Learning Assessments (CLAs) directly measure Course Learning Outcomes and
indirectly measure MBA Program Outcomes. The following table shows how all those are
linked together.
Comprehensive Learning Course Learning Outcomes MBA Program

Assessments (CLAs) (CLOs) Outcomes
CLA1 (Week 4) 1, 2, 3, 5, 7 1, 2, 3, 6, 8
CLA2 (Week 8) 1, 4, 5, 6, 7 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 8
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Detailed Description of Each Grading Criteria:
What are Grading Rubrics (Metrics)?
Westcliff University makes use of Grading Rubrics for scoring of grades in many assignments.
Grading or scoring rubrics are used as a tool used to delineate criteria and expectations
pertaining to assignments and to establish an objective consistency in grading. Typically, rubrics
are divided into components so as to allow for a more direct and precise measurement and
interpretation of assignments. Hence, rubrics are designed to provide guidelines for grading
assignments and represents a systematic appraisal of student-work only from this perspective.
The final grading of all assignments will have a subjective component that typically includes the
instructor’s interpretations, judgments, and any policies pertaining to assignments.
A. Grading Criteria for Class Participation and Attendance
Students will receive two weekly Participation grades:
(1) Virtual Class Sessions (Live/Recordings)/Facilitated Discussions:
Students are expected to attend their Virtual Class Session (Live/Recordings) or Facilitated
Tutorial Discussion each week. Preparation involves reading the materials and working
through, in some detail, the case preparation in advance. By preparing these questions,
students will get the most learning out of the session. More participation will lead to
increases in the quality and rigor not only of the session but for other students as well.
Westcliff University provides an open forum environment. There is no limit on the
discussion in which you may involve yourself.
(2) Online Discussion Board Discussions
Each week, students will be assigned 1-3 Discussion Questions. For each Discussion
Question, students must post an answer in the Discussion Board on their course Global
Academic Portal (GAP) by the assigned deadline each week. Students must then post a Peer
Response for each Discussion Question by the deadline that same week. The GAP can be
accessed online at gap.westcliff.edu.
You are expected to answer each discussion question critically by using your textbook,
LIRN-based research, and the Internet and actively participate in class. All discussion
responses should be at least 1 paragraph in length with significant, rigorous content. Your
response should reflect your ability to conduct research and should include citations. You
should also present your analysis and back it up with specific examples. Responses to other
learners' analyses should add substance, request clarification, provide a different perspective,
or challenge the assertions made by providing real or hypothetical scenarios that the original
analysis does not adequately address. It is also good practice to provide normal, supportive
comments. Everyone appreciates this feedback. Remember, the purpose of course
discussions is to stimulate academic debate.
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At the graduate-level, discussion questions can be based on any one (or combination) of the
following resources:
● Textbook, current and previous chapter(s)

● Other readings
● Research (journals, periodicals, and other electronic resources)
● Lecture
The University makes a concerted effort to promote a variety of discussion questions that
related to the current course and/or its content as it relates to the field in business in general.
In assigning grades to class discussion, faculty will focus primarily on the quality of your
input; however, it usually takes at least some quantity of participation for us to make that
evaluation.
Good case discussions take the group farther than any one individual or study group can go
on their own. However, it takes at least a certain quantity of participation to make that
evaluation. Instructors will develop grades and scores based on the quantity and quality of
your contributions.
In general, the instructors’ criteria are:
1. Are points made relevant to the discussion?

2. Do they go beyond a mere recitation of case facts, and are implications clearly
drawn?
3. Is there evidence of analysis rather than expression of opinion?
4. Are comments linked to those of others?
5. Did the contribution further the class’ understanding of issues?
Students who neglect to submit their Class Participation responses (either answers to
discussion questions or responses to classmates/faculty) by the stated weekly deadlines will
be deducted up to 15% of the online participation points possible for that week. Discussion
Boards close on Sunday of each week at 11:59 p.m. at which time students are no longer able
to post responses and receive no credit for missed posts. Technological issues are not
considered valid grounds for late assignment submission. Students are responsible for
printing their own assignments, when necessary. Unless an “Incomplete” grade has been
granted, assignments submitted after the last day of class will not be accepted.
B. Grading Criteria for Professional Assignments:
In Weeks 2 and 6 students will write a 2-3 page paper in response to a case study or similar
assignment provided by your professor. Student answers are to be clear, well-organized, and
specific. Provide a concise, cogent argument and include details to support your response.
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Please refer to Expectations of Student Assignments and the Format Requirements for
Written Assignments located on pages 11-12 of the University Policies for a detailing of
specific expectations for how to format and write your paper. Additionally, you may refer to
the PA and CLA Grading Rubric found on page 20 of the University Policies.
C. Grading Criteria for Exams

In Week 7 you will have an exam. The exam will cover the chapters assigned and discussed
during the previous week(s). Your access to the exam begins on Monday and closes on
Sunday at midnight. All exams are strictly closed book.
Some exams will be chosen for proctoring. Please see the Proctored Examination Policy on
page 13 of the University Policies.
Grading Criteria for Comprehensive Learning Assessments (CLAs):

CLAs are comprehensive assignments that provide evidence of how well students have
mastered the course content and test the students on all the Course Learning Outcomes.
CLAs measure student achievement of CLOs in a way that goes beyond rote memorization
and gauges true understanding and mastery of course content. CLAs can include assignments
such as case study analyses, research papers, and/or student presentations. The answers
provided to graduate level CLA’s must demonstrate a broad view of organizational
performance factors from the general management perspective that demonstrate concepts
pertaining to effective leadership and management in the 21st century globalized business
economy. One of the grading criteria requirements is that answers provided exhibit skills that
promote and integrate program outcomes and should include decision-making, strategic
management, creativity and innovation, leadership, problem-solving and real-time business
application. Answers must also demonstrate the student’s ability to research and demonstrate
a graduate writing level.
D. Comprehensive Learning Assessment (CLA 1)

In Week 4 students are to write a 4-6 page minimum APA formatted paper in response to a
case study or similar assignment provided by the professor. Students must reference at least
6 sources beyond the course materials. Students’ answers are to be clear, well-organized,
and specific. Provide a concise, cogent argument and include details to support your
response. CLA 1 focuses on assessing course foundations and the student’s ability to define
and understand its main concepts.
Written Assignments located on page 11-12 of the University Policies for a detailing of
E. Comprehensive Learning Assessment (CLA 2)

Written Paper Criteria:
In Week 7 students complete CLA2, which is the logical culmination of the course. Your
CLA2 submission (cumulative report) should be a minimum of 4-6 pages in length. The CLA
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assignments encompass the learning outcomes for this course and are designed to
demonstrate what has been learning or achieved by the student. CLA 2 measures the
student’s competency and mastery of the course concepts, particularly the application of
those concepts.
Written Assignments located on page 11-12 of the University Policies for a detailing of
F. Comprehensive Learning Assessment (CLA 2) Presentation

CLA2 Presentation Criteria:
In addition to your CLA2 report, please prepare a professional PowerPoint presentation
summarizing your findings for CLA2. The presentation will consist of your major findings,
analysis, and recommendations in a concise presentation of 15 slides (minimum). You should
use content from your CLA2 report as material for your PowerPoint presentation. In addition,
you should include learning outcomes from all your major assignments. This would include
PA1, CLA1, PA2, and of course, CLA2 (unless otherwise specified by your Professor). An
agenda, executive summary, and references slides should also be included. Please keep in
mind that the university is moving towards a more digital footprint for our students. This
means that your final CLA2 presentation may be recorded, so that you may include it in your
“e-portfolio” (graduating students should have all of their CLA2 presentations on a flash-
drive, in addition to student biography, resume, interests, etc.) Students will present their
PowerPoint during the last week of class in either the On-Campus Class Session or the online
Virtual Class Session, as determined by the professor. Presentations should not exceed 15
minutes.
Each CLA2 and presentation will become a part of the student’s digital portfolio. Upon
completion of the program, the student’s digital portfolio will demonstrate the student’s
mastery of the course and program learning outcomes.
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Rubrics
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GRADING METRICS FOR WEEKLY ONLINE DISCUSSION
Exemplary Proficient Needs Progress Unsatisfactory

Points 30 27 24 21 18 15 12 9 6 3 0 Weight of
Grade
Student answers or
responds to all questions
completely, Student answers or
demonstrating knowledge responds to all Student answers or Student fails to answer
and understanding of key discussion questions, responds to at least one, or respond to discussion
concepts, ability to think but lacks some but not all discussion questions assigned
Answering critically, and has demonstration of questions, and/or lacks and/or does not
Discussion included original understanding of key some demonstration of demonstrate an 30%
Questions examples in his/her concepts, or ability to understanding of key understanding of key
response. It is required think critically, or does concepts, or ability to concepts, or ability to
that the textbook and/or not include examples think critically, or does think critically, or does
scholarly research be and/or textbook or not include examples. not include examples.
included to justify and/or scholarly research.
solidify any argument or
reasoning.
Points 30 27 24 21 18 15 12 9 6 3 0
Student responds to
Student responds to classmates’ postings, but
classmates’ postings but does not meet the Student neglects to
Student’s responses are
a few responses are not minimum number of respond to classmates’
well conceived, offering
well conceived, or do responses required, and postings or responses
insight and original
not offer insight, or some responses are not are not well conceived,
Response to examples. Student
original examples. well conceived, or do not do not offer insight, or 30%
Peers incorporates or builds off
Student might not offer insight, or original original examples.
of the ideas of others and
incorporate or build off examples. Student Student does not
provides an analysis of
of the ideas of others in might not incorporate or incorporate or build off
concepts discussed.
a meaningful way and build off of the ideas of of the ideas of others.
may lack analysis. others in a meaningful
way.
Points 25 22.5 20 17.5 15 12.5 10 7.5 5 2.5 0
Student responds to
Student brings in outside Student demonstrates
questions and postings Student fails to
examples and is able to an understanding of
with verbiage copied demonstrate knowledge
Preparation examine a problem or key concepts, but offers 25%
directly from textbook, or understanding of the
situation from a variety only some analysis or
rather than in their own assigned reading.
of perspectives. original thought.
words.
Points 15 13.5 12 10.5 9 7.5 6 4.5 3 1.5 0

Student is late in
posting and/or
Student is late posting Student fails to post
Accountabil Student posts answers responding to postings,
either answers or answers and responses 15%
ity and responses on time. but has a viable excuse
responses. on time.
and has notified the
professor in advance.
Total Possible 100%
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Rubric – Class Participation

Score Criteria
●On time to/from:

● Arrives for class on time
● Returns from break(s) on time
● Stays for the full duration of class time
●Active and substantive contributions to the class discussion
●Respects others
90- 100 ● Cellular phones may not be used in-class, unless used for a class activity
●Comes prepared for class by bringing:
● Textbook or required materials
● Notebook and pen/pencil, or
● Laptop computer, or
● Both notebook and pen/pencil and laptop computer
●Asks thoughtful questions
●On time to/from:

● Arrives up to 10 minutes late to class
● Returns from break(s) up to 10 minutes late
● Leaves up to 10 minutes early
●Contributes to the class discussion somewhat actively and substantively
● Respects others
75-89 o Cellular phones may not be used in-class, unless used for a class activity
●Comes prepared for class by bringing:
● Textbook or required materials
● Notebook and pen/pencil, or
● Laptop computer, or
● Both notebook and pen/pencil and laptop computer
●On time to/from:

● More than 10 minutes late to class
● Returns from break(s) more than 10 minutes late
● Leaves more than 10 minutes before the end of class
●Does not actively contribute to the class
50-74
●Not attentive to the lesson, easily distracted
●Sometimes follows classroom rules OR disrespects faculty and/or other students at
times
●Not prepared for class
● Has neither a notebook and pen/pencil, and/or laptop computer
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BUS 525a Syllabus
●On time to/from:

● Arrives more than 30 minutes late to class
● Returns from break(s) more than 30 minutes late
● Leaves 30 minutes or earlier before the end of class
●Does not contribute to the class discussion
25-49 ●Not attentive to the lesson, easily distracted
● Is on cell phone or other internet sites during class
●Does not follow classroom rules and/or is not respectful to faculty and/or classmates
● Not prepared for class
o Has neither the textbook or required materials, nor a notebook and pen/pencil,
nor a laptop computer
●Does not attend class or,

● Does not attend 40 minutes or more of class lecture time (excluding any student
services and/or administrative requests)
0 o 40 minutes or more may be a combination of minutes missed due to:
▪ Coming late to class
▪ Returning back late from break(s)
▪ Leaving class early
●Excused absence resulting in submission of a written assignment completed as per

professor instructions in the time frame given. Grade given based on quality of
0-100 work. Faculty will typically grade the assignment within 4 days of submission, but
also reserves the right to grade submission at any time during the current session, up
to and including the last day of the session. 0-100 points
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Detailed Course Outline

The following outline provides important assignment details for this course, week-by-week. You
are responsible for all of the assignments given. Please refer to the Detailed Description of
Each Grading Criteria beginning on page 8 of the syllabus for specific information about each
assignment.
Week 1
Assignments to complete this week:
● Reading:
o Chapter 1: Strategic Management and Strategic Competitiveness
o Chapter 2: The External Environment: Opportunities, Threats, Industry
Competition, and Competitor Analysis
● Post DQ Answers by Friday at 11:59 p.m.
● Post DQ Peer Responses by Sunday at 11:59 p.m.
● Applied Learning Assignment – ALA (E): Due by Sunday at 11:59 p.m.
Each week, students must post 1 answer and 1 peer response for every discussion question.
Student Discussion Question answers must be posted by Friday at 11:59 p.m. and Peer
Responses must be posted by Sunday at 11:59 p.m.. Please see Grading Criteria for Discussion
Board Participation on page 8 of the syllabus for Discussion Question and Response
expectations.
Discussion Question 1 – Applied Concepts (AC) - Week/Course Learning Outcomes
Using your textbook, LIRN-based research, and the Internet, apply the learning outcomes for the
week/course and lecture concepts to one of the following scenarios:
As applied to your current professional career
As applied to enhancing, improving, or advancing your current professional career
As applied to a management, leadership, or any decision-making position
As applied to a current or future entrepreneurial endeavor
OR
Using your textbook, LIRN-based research, and the Internet, apply the learning outcomes for the
week/course and lecture concepts to a business organization that exhibits and demonstrates these
concepts. You should develop a summary of the organization's strategy and how they use these
concepts to compete.
This is a learning and application exercise designed to give you an opportunity to apply concepts
learned in a pragmatic and meaningful way that will enable you to gain valuable and relevant
knowledge in an effort to augment your skill set and enhance your professional careers.
ALA (E) – Current Events – Applied Learning Assignment (ALA) Graduate
Each student is to research a current event that is related to one or more of the Course Learning
Outcomes (CLO) listed in your syllabus. You should use the Internet; electronic news agencies
BUS 525a Syllabus
or journals to research a current event should be 1 to 3 years old. An analysis should be

conducted on your researched current event (related to one or more CLO’s). Each student must
create PowerPoint slide(s) and should include:
● A summary of the event

● A brief statement about the relationship of the current event to the CLO(s)
● As a manager, how would apply what you have learned to an organization
● Include an industry example demonstrating the application of your researched current
event
● You must label your slides as “Current Event to CLO”
● Prepare and submit a 1-2 slide PowerPoint (do not forget to include these slides in your
final CLA2 PowerPoint )
● The grade for this ALA (E) will be reflected in your final CLA2 PowerPoint grade. Part
of the grade will be based on the timeliness of your submission; due this current week.
Note: It is expected that you complete this assignment during this current week and submit your
slide(s) in the appropriate GAP location by Sunday 11:59 p.m.. Do not forget to include your
“Current Event to CLO” slides in your final CLA2 PowerPoint in week 8.
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BUS 525a Syllabus
Week 2
● Reading:
o Chapter 3: The Internal Organization: Resources, Capabilities, Core
Competencies, and Competitive Advantage
o Chapter 4: Business-Level Strategy
● Professional Assignment 1 due by Monday at 11:59 p.m.
expectations.
DQ (P) - Discussion Question 1 – (PDQ directed at upcoming PA) Graduate Level
Prior to reading this DQ, please read the PA1 assignment and understand what the assignment is
asking you to complete. Once you have an understanding of the PA1 assignment, please continue
to the paragraph below to complete DQ1.
Using the Library Information Resource Network (LIRN), JSTOR, or any other electronic
journal database, research one (1) peer-reviewed article that can be used to answer your
upcoming PA1 assignment. Your discussion should summarize the article in such a way that it
can justify any arguments you may present in your PA1 assignment and should be different than
the abstract. In addition to your researched peer-reviewed article, you must include an example
of the article researched as it is applied by industry (company, business entity, etc.).
Please note: This article summary should not be the only article researched for your PA1
assignment. You may (and should) have several other articles researched in order to fully answer
your PA1 assignment. The concept of this DQ is to allow students to be proactive in the research
necessary to complete this assignment. You may use your article summary, partially or in its
entirety in your PA1 assignment.
Important: Please ensure that you insert your reference for the article in correct APA format, as
your reference in your discussion post. Depending on which electronic database you use, you
should see a “Cite” selection for your article. In addition, there should be a variety of articles
summarized and as such, students should have different articles summarized. Your summary
MUST include ALL of the following in your DQ post (include every item in the bullet list below,
or you will not receive full credit):
● Clearly state what the article is about and its purpose

● How the article and/or author(s) support your argument(s)
● Most important aspects of the article
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● Any findings and conclusions

● Approximately 250 to 350 words in length
● Include the article “Abstract” in your posting (your summary should be original)
● Include the industry example demonstrating the application of your researched article
● “IMPORTANT” - Include the reference for the article in correct APA format
Professional Assignment 1 (PA1) – CLO 1, CLO 2, CLO 3

In a 2 to 3 page APA formatted paper:
Read: “Watch Out All Retailers, Here Comes Amazon; Watch Out Amazon, Here Comes
Other Competitors” On page 67-68
Answer the questions below (With six peer-reviewed sources for support):
1. Can any firm beat Amazon in the marketplace? If not, why not? If so, how can they best do
so?
2. How formidable a competitor is Google for Amazon? Please explain.
3. What are Amazon’s major strengths? Does it have any weaknesses? Please explain.
4. Is Jet.com a potential concern for Amazon? Why or why not?
*Please refer to the Grading Criteria for Professional Assignments on page 9 of the syllabus
for specific guidelines and expectations.
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Week 3
● Reading:
o Chapter 5: Competitive Rivalry and Competitive Dynamics
o Chapter 6: Corporate-Level Strategy
● Applied Learning Assignment – ALA (P): Due by Sunday at 11:59 p.m. (week 4)
expectations.
Discussion Question 1 – CLO 3

What is market commonality?
What is resource similarity?
In what way are these concepts the building blocks for a competitor analysis?
ALA (P) - Personalized CLO – Applied Learning Assignment (ALA) Graduate
Each student is to choose one (1) Course Learning Outcome (CLO) listed in the course syllabus.
Using your textbook, LIRN-based research, JSTOR.org, the Internet, or any other electronic
journal database, research a peer-reviewed article that applies to the CLO you selected AND
facilitates answering part of your upcoming CLA1 assignment.
Subsequently, you will include in your CLA1 assignment paper, a separate and distinct heading
titled “Personalized CLO Applied Learning Assignment”. Under this heading, you will provide a
minimum of two (2) paragraphs that should contain the following information and/or details:

● Most important aspects of the article as it directly related to your CLO
● Approximately 250 to 350 words in length (minimum of 2 paragraphs)
● Include the reference in APA format to properly reference your article
Please be sure to provide justification by citing the article researched, and include the citation in
the reference page of your paper.
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Week 4
● Reading:
o Chapter 7: Merger and Acquisitions Strategies
● CLA 1 due by Monday at 11:59 p.m.
expectations.
DQ (C) - Discussion Question 1 – (CDQ directed at upcoming CLA) Graduate Level
Prior to reading this DQ, please read the CLA1 assignment and understand what the assignment
is asking you to complete. Once you have an understanding of the CLA1 assignment, please
continue to the paragraph below to complete DQ1.
upcoming CLA1 assignment. Your discussion should summarize the article in such a way that it
can justify any arguments you may present in your CLA1 assignment and should be different
than the abstract. In addition to your researched peer-reviewed article, you must include an
example of the article researched as it is applied by industry (company, business entity, etc.).
Please note: This article summary should not be the only article researched for your CLA1
your CLA1 assignment. The concept of this DQ is to allow students to be proactive in the
research necessary to complete this assignment. You may use your article summary, partially or
in its entirety in your CLA1 assignment.
MUST include ALL of the following (include every item in the bullet list below, or you will not
receive full credit):

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Comprehensive Learning Assessment 1 - CLO 1, CLO 2, CLO 3, CLO 5, CLO 7
Read: “Cementing a Merger of Equals between Lafarge and Holcim Has Been Difficult” on
pages 231-232. Prepare a 4 to 6 page APA formatted paper (with six peer-reviewed sources for
support):
Answer questions:
1. Of the “Reasons for Acquisitions” discussed in the chapter, which reasons are the primary
drivers of Lafarge-Holcim merger strategy?
2. Given that there have been performance difficulties of this “merger of equals,” which of the
“Problems in Achieving Acquisition Success” do you believe have most likely affected this deal?
3. The new CEO, Jan Jenisch, has undertaken a restructuring strategy. Why do you think the
market reacted negatively to this plan?
4. What would you suggest the firm do to improve it restructuring plan and ultimately its poor
performance?
*Please refer to the Grading Criteria for Comprehensive Learning Assessments (CLAs) on
page 10 of the syllabus for specific guidelines and expectations.
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BUS 525a Syllabus
Week 5
● Reading:
o Chapter 8: International Strategy
o Chapter 9: Cooperative Strategy
expectations.
DC (QP) - Discussion Question 1 – CLA2 Preparation & Course Learning Outcomes
Welcome to week 5 of your course. This discussion question will help you prepare for your
CLA2 paper and final CLA2 PowerPoint and as such, will have a fair amount of detail. Read
the CLA2 assignment listed in week 8 of the course. Then, please provide an outline that itemizes
the concepts that you will include in your CLA2 paper and final PowerPoint. Please be sure to
include concepts learned in the course and information (findings, conclusions) from your PA1
and CLA1 papers. Provide some brief details for each item that is outlined. Please keep in mind
that you should have place-holders for material not yet covered in lecture from weeks 6 and 7.
Here is an itemized list that summarizes the requirements of this DQ (include every item in the
bullet list below, or you will not receive full credit):
● Outline that itemizes concepts learned in the course

● Include information (findings, conclusions) from your PA1 and CLA1
● Brief details for each item that is outlined
● Place-holders for material not yet covered
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BUS 525a Syllabus
Week 6
● Reading:
o Chapter 10: Corporate Governance
o Chapter 11: Organizational Structure and Controls
● Professional Assignment 2 due by Monday at 11:59 p.m.
expectations.
DQ (P) - Discussion Question 1 – (PDQ directed at upcoming PA) Graduate Level
Prior to reading this DQ, please read the PA2 assignment and understand what the assignment is
asking you to complete. Once you have an understanding of the PA2 assignment, please continue
to the paragraph below to complete DQ1.
upcoming PA2 assignment. Your discussion should summarize the article in such a way that it
can justify any arguments you may present in your PA2 assignment and should be different than
the abstract. In addition to your researched peer-reviewed article, you must include an example
of the article researched as it is applied by industry (company, business entity, etc.).
Please note: This article summary should not be the only article researched for your PA2
your PA2 assignment. The concept of this DQ is to allow students to be proactive in the research
necessary to complete this assignment. You may use your article summary, partially or in its
entirety in your PA2 assignment.
MUST include ALL of the following (include every item in the bullet list below, or you will not
receive full credit):

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BUS 525a Syllabus

Professional Assignment 2 – CLO 5
Read: “Sony’s Dilemma, Matching Strategy and Structure” on pages 374-375. In a 2 to 3

page APA formatted paper (with six peer-reviewed sources for support):
Answer the following questions:
1. To implement a corporate strategy, a firm needs to have a strong set of capabilities to

“parent” the set of business units that the firm has established or acquired. Given Sony’s
history and organization structure, what would you argue are Sony’s strongest parenting or
corporate capabilities? How will the new strategy utilize these capabilities?
2. Do you think that Sony has the right organization structure to foster the necessary integration
among its electronic and entertainment content businesses that its revamped strategy seems to
entail?
3. What additional organizational structure and/or process adjustments will Sony need to make
to realize its revised strategic objectives?
*Please refer to the Grading Criteria for Professional Assignments on page 9 of the syllabus
for specific guidelines and expectations.
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BUS 525a Syllabus
Week 7
● Reading:
o Chapter 12: Strategic Leadership
o Chapter 13: Strategic Entrepreneurship
● Applied Learning Assignment – ALA (T) - Sunday at 11:59 p.m.
● CLA 2 Paper due by Monday at 11:59 p.m.
expectations.
Discussion Question 1 – CLO 6

Assume you are in charge of developing the strategy for an international company selling
products in 50 different countries around the world. One of the issues you face is whether to
employ a multi-domestic strategy, a global strategy, or a transnational strategy.
● If your company's product is mobile phones, do you believe it would make better
strategic sense to employ a multi-domestic strategy, a global strategy, or a transnational
strategy? Why?
● If your company's product is dry soup mixes and canned soups, would a multi-domestic
strategy seems to be more advisable than a global strategy? Why?
● If your company's product is large home appliances such as washing machines, ranges,
ovens, and refrigerators, would it seem to make more sense to pursue a multi-domestic
strategy, a global strategy, or a transnational strategy? Why?
If your company's product is apparel and footwear, would a multi-domestic strategy, a global
strategy, or a transnational strategy seem to have more appeal? Why
ALA (T) - Topic Videos – Applied Learning Assignment (ALA) Graduate
Each student is required to review the “Video-of-the-Week,” listed in GAP for this current week.
The video(s) selection is directly related to at least one of the Course Learning Outcomes
(CLO’s), and presents a solution(s) to a business problem. Using your textbook, LIRN-based
research, JSTOR.org, the Internet, or any other electronic journal database, research at least one
stated claim, aspect, challenge, solution, opinion, etc. in the video. Subsequently, you will
include in your CLA2 assignment paper, a separate and distinct heading titled “Topic Video
Critical Thinking & Reasoning”. You are to critically think about the solution presented and that
you researched, and apply critical thinking and reasoning skills to present one of the following
(include every item in the bullet list below, or you will not receive full credit):
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BUS 525a Syllabus
● Discuss your initial thoughts about the solution/challenge/aspect presented in the video
● Present what you would do different in terms of the solution presented in the video
● Relate the content of the video to one of the CLO’s in the course
● Approximately 250 to 350 words in length (minimum of 2 paragraphs)
● Include the industry example demonstrating the application of your researched video
● Include the reference in APA format to properly reference your article
Please be sure to provide justification by citing the article researched, and include the citation in
the reference page of your paper
CLA 2 Comprehensive Learning Assessment 2 – CLO 1, CLO 4, CLO 5, CLO 6, CLO 7
Read “What Explains the Lack of Innovation at American Express? Is It Hubris, Inertia, or
Lack of Capability?” on pages 438-439
Answer the following questions in essay format (with six peer-reviewed sources as support).
1. This case suggests that a lack of continuous innovation contributed to American Express’s
(AmEx) poor performance in 2014. Assuming this is true, what factors might prevent a firm the
size and scope of AmEx from being able to innovate continuously?
2. Use material from Chapter 4 to identify the business-level strategy AmEx uses. What
dimensions do you believe AmEx should emphasize to use the strategy you identified
successfully across time?
3. What actions do you believe AmEx should take to establish an entrepreneurial mind-set
among employees throughout the company?
4. This Mini-Case includes descriptions of recent AmEx innovations. Do you anticipate that
most of these innovations resulted from autonomous strategic behavior or from induced strategic
behavior? Why?
*Please refer to the Grading Criteria for Comprehensive Learning Assessments (CLAs) on
page 10 of the syllabus for specific guidelines and expectations.
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BUS 525a Syllabus
Week 8
● Reading:
o Review all chapters covered that will assist in the completion of the CLA 2
assignment.
● Project – Opens Monday - Sunday at 11:59 p.m.
● CLA 2 Presentation due in class
expectations.
Discussion Question 1 – Summary & Critical Thinking – Week/Course Learning Outcomes
Welcome to the last week of your course. In this discussion question you have the opportunity to
be creative and to relate what you have learned to your professional lives. Please explore and
critically think about some of the learning objectives and concepts presented in this course.
Please effectively communicate how you would lead an organization (or a group of people
within the organization) by applying the knowledge you have learned ethically and responsibly.
Your discussion should also include innovative thinking, and information-technology aspects
(such as the Internet, social-media, computers, etc.) that may assist you in decision-making. You
may frame your discussion around any functional component of business, and in any context;
problem-solving, management, leadership, organizational behavior, etc.
Project
This assignment has three components that needs to be performed in a group of three.
Firstly, choose one of the industry from the list below. Compare and contrast the strategies being
used by the two companies in your chosen industry to gain competitive advantage. Also, look for
strategies that might not have worked. Use tools, methods, and practices that you have learned
during the course to gain insights.
Ride sharing platform- Tootle and Pathao
Internet service provider- Worldlink and Vianet
Banking service- NIC Asia and NIBL
Shoes manufacturing business- Caliber and Goldstar
Super stores- Big mart and Bhatbhateni
Food delivery service- Foodmandu and Food mario
Hospital- Grande International Hospital and Nepal Medicity Hospital
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BUS 525a Syllabus
Now, start a fictitious company of your own in the industry you have selected and come up with
a detailed report in APA format not exceeding 15 pages that outlines strategies to be successful
in the industry. Assumptions has to be realistic, logical, and evidence based. Prepare a
presentation based on the report to present in the class.
CLA2 Comprehensive Learning Assessment (CLA 2) Presentation
In addition to your CLA2 report, please prepare a professional PowerPoint presentation

summarizing your findings for CLA2. The presentation will consist of your major findings,
analysis, and recommendations in a concise presentation of 15 slides (minimum). You should
use content from your CLA2 report as material for your PowerPoint presentation. In addition,
you should include learning outcomes from all your major assignments. This would include PA1,
CLA1, PA2, and of course, CLA2 (unless otherwise specified by your Professor). An agenda,
executive summary, and references slides should also be included. Please keep in mind that the
university is moving towards a more digital footprint for our students. This means that your final
CLA2 presentation may be recorded, so that you may include it in your “e-portfolio” (graduating
students should have all of their CLA2 presentations on a flash-drive, in addition to student
biography, resume, interests, etc.) Students will present their PowerPoint during the last week of
class in either the On-Campus Class Session or the online Virtual Class Session, as determined
by the professor. Presentations should not exceed 15 minutes.
*Please refer to the Grading Criteria for CLA2 Presentations on page 11 of the syllabus for
specific guidelines and expectations.
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MASTER IN BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION PROGRAM

Welcome to BUS 525a Strategic Management in a Globalized Economy 4

Course Learning Outcomes (CLOs) Linked to Program Outcomes 6

CLA Linking Table 7

Detailed Description of Each Grading Criteria: 8

Detailed Course Outline 17

Westcliff University Mission Statements

College of Business Mission Statement

MBA Program Mission Statement

Professor: Dr. Schahrzade Rezvani

Course Learning Outcomes (CLOs) Linked to Program Outcomes

MBA (K) Knowledge

1. Describe all facets of a sound business strategy and the reasoning

4. Compare the five generic strategies. Describe why some of these

5. Describe the strategic benefits and risks of expanding a

CLA Linking Table

Comprehensive Learning Course Learning Outcomes MBA Program

Detailed Description of Each Grading Criteria:

What are Grading Rubrics (Metrics)?

A. Grading Criteria for Class Participation and Attendance

Students will receive two weekly Participation grades:

(1) Virtual Class Sessions (Live/Recordings)/Facilitated Discussions:

(2) Online Discussion Board Discussions

● Textbook, current and previous chapter(s)

In general, the instructors’ criteria are:

1. Are points made relevant to the discussion?

B. Grading Criteria for Professional Assignments:

C. Grading Criteria for Exams

Grading Criteria for Comprehensive Learning Assessments (CLAs):

D. Comprehensive Learning Assessment (CLA 1)

E. Comprehensive Learning Assessment (CLA 2)

F. Comprehensive Learning Assessment (CLA 2) Presentation

GRADING METRICS FOR WEEKLY ONLINE DISCUSSION

Exemplary Proficient Needs Progress Unsatisfactory

Points 25 22.5 20 17.5 15 12.5 10 7.5 5 2.5 0

Points 15 13.5 12 10.5 9 7.5 6 4.5 3 1.5 0

Rubric – Class Participation

●On time to/from:

●On time to/from:

●On time to/from:

●On time to/from:

●Does not attend class or,

●Excused absence resulting in submission of a written assignment completed as per

Detailed Course Outline

Discussion Question 1 – Applied Concepts (AC) - Week/Course Learning Outcomes

ALA (E) – Current Events – Applied Learning Assignment (ALA) Graduate

or journals to research a current event should be 1 to 3 years old. An analysis should be

● A summary of the event

DQ (P) - Discussion Question 1 – (PDQ directed at upcoming PA) Graduate Level

● Clearly state what the article is about and its purpose

● Any findings and conclusions

Professional Assignment 1 (PA1) – CLO 1, CLO 2, CLO 3

Discussion Question 1 – CLO 3

ALA (P) - Personalized CLO – Applied Learning Assignment (ALA) Graduate

● Clearly state what the article is about and its purpose

DQ (C) - Discussion Question 1 – (CDQ directed at upcoming CLA) Graduate Level

● Clearly state what the article is about and its purpose

Comprehensive Learning Assessment 1 - CLO 1, CLO 2, CLO 3, CLO 5, CLO 7

DC (QP) - Discussion Question 1 – CLA2 Preparation & Course Learning Outcomes