RHI-10406 Introduction to Management and Consumer Studies

Course

Credits 6.00

Language of instruction:

Dutch

Contents:

This introductory course familiarizes students with the historical background of contemporary developments and events, and with general notions and concepts on organization theory. Students get a survey of 20th century economic and social history in Western Europe with a focus on the role of the state and the market. Special attention will be given to the rise of the consumer society. In the lectures on organizations and chains we will concentrate on the theoretical background of organizations and institutions, private as well as public, and on the development of networks.
Students will also get an introduction in the uses of computers and the library, as well as in the critical assessment of literature.

Aims:

- knowledge of computer use WU;
- knowledge of acquiring and assessing information;
- knowledge and understanding of the scientific world;
- knowledge and understanding of twentieth century economical and societal developments;
- understanding of the value of long term historical analyses for contemporary discussions and problems;
- understanding of alternative methods of coordination of activities and decisions within and between firms, production chains and networks;
- ability of assessing those alternatives.

Activities:

Lectures, study, tutorials. It is expected that the student will prepare the relevant literature for the lectures, that he participates actively in the discussions, and does the weekly assignments.

Examination:

There will be a written exam based on the lectures and the obligatory literature. The final mark is the result of this written exam and a bonus for the assignments.

Literature:

S. Douma en H. Schreuder, Economic approaches to organisations. Third Edition (Harlow: Prentice Hall, 20023).
Max-Stephan Schulze (ed.), Western Europe. Economic and social change since 1945 (London: Longman, 1998).
A course outline will be distributed at the first lecture, and can be found on the internet site of the Rural History.