Time Schedule:
Vandra Lee Huber
B BUS 507
Bothell Campus
Synthesizes and extends perspective on global business environment. Demonstrates how choices related to organization and strategy (such as outsourcing and diversification) require an understanding of trade theory and policy, differences in national cultures, and international institutions. Prerequisite: B BUS 504; B BUS 505; B BUS 506. Offered: Sp.
Class description
This class explores the intangible assets in organization that underscore organizational transformation and change. Specifically we will examine (1) human capital, (2) information capital and (3) organization capital as they relate to strategic transformations. We will approach these issues by examining organizations as knowledge management systems. This will be our guiding metaphor because the flow of knowledge is crucial for effectiveness in organizations. If you and your employees are exceptional at creating, managing, and diffusing knowledge within the organization and between organizations, you are more likely to bring about enduring transformations, which enhance organizational effectiveness. Finally, we will examine the decision processes that underscore the effective utilization of knowledge to bring about enduring change and transformation in organizations.
Student learning goals
General method of instruction
•Readings will focus on the theoretical aspects of knowledge management. Theoretical readings will be complemented with practical applications
•Case studies will serve as a source of “best practices” on knowledge management and utilization in organizations.
•Exercises are framed and analyzed in terms of readings, lecture and in-depth class discussions and will provide you will opportunities to experience knowledge issues and solutions •Application Assignment. The final course project is designed to give executives the opportunity to apply what they’ve learned to a personal relevant situation.
Recommended preparation
Class assignments and grading
Minimum Requirements Group Knowledge Management Project Group Learning Principles Final Class Participation in Simulations and Case Discussions Choice of Case Analyses Debriefing Reports Leadership Brand Report Research Paper
Learning Contracts
Since the focus in this course is upon knowledge and learning, a student-driven approach to grading will be utilized in this class. Students will determine the grade level that they aspire to achieve. Based upon the work completed and the quality of that work, they will receive the earned grade.
All students are required to attend ALL class sessions. Additionally, you will complete the following to achieve the specified grade: All of these •Prepare and actively participate in case analyses and simulations. No more than one absence.
•Knowledge Management Project. Complete project according to specifications in reading packet. Receive a grade on the project of at least a 3.0. Receive peer evaluations for your work that indicate that you are at least 95% of standard.
•Completion of Part A (outside of class) and Part B of Sound Manufacturing Simulation
•Completion of Vagbonds in Vietnam Group Cultural Simulation
•Group Summary Principles/Knowledge Points Final Assignment. A 10 page paper in which your group develops 10 knowledge nuggets/ principles which are derived from you and your group’s experiences and the readings in class. Your packet of readings contains a more detailed instruction of Knowledge Nuggets assignment. The goal of this assignment is for group members to share their collective thoughts to come up with group knowledge nuggets. Don’t try to skip corners by assigning team members to each write two nuggets.. Turn in one report per group (electronically) per group. Due no later than Friday, March 10 at high noon.
All of the above listed for the 3.0-3.3 grade plus one individual learning assignment delineated below:
1. One 3-5 page case write-up due at the beginning of the class. Must receive a 3.0 or better passing grade on write-up. 2. One 3-5 page debrief on Part A or Part B of Sound Manufacturing Simulation or the Vagabond in Vietnam Simulation. Must receive a 3.0 or better on the write-up. 3. An individual preparation report for the Vagabonds in Vietnam Culture Simulation. You need to respond to ALL of the questions in Negotiation Preparation Questionnaire (in your packet) for the simulation. It takes several hours to complete report. Turn in report at the beginning of the simulation. 3.6-3.8 All of the above listed for the 3.3-3.5 grade plus two individual learning assignments as delineated above. 1. A second preparation report. Must be a hard copy 2. A Debriefing Report due one week after the simulation occurs. Must send professor a hard copy (See below for questions).
3.9-4.0 All of the above listed for the 3.6-3.8 grade plus one of the following. You can also do two preparation reports or two debriefing reports:
•A 10 page research paper on a knowledge management related topic which is agreed upon in advance with the professor. Must be a hard copy
•Leadership Brand Project. This project forces you to collect information on your leadership competencies
Receive a grade of 3.4 or above on the special assignment. Assignment is due March 10 at noon. Hard copy to my UW Seattle mailbox..
