Active learning ideas
Globalisation is the process by which the world becomes more interconnected. In this topic, students analyze how this trend affects Ireland, a country that hosts many of the world's largest multinational companies (MNCs). They explore the drivers of globalisation, such as improvements in transport and technology, and evaluate the impact on different stakeholders, including consumers, local businesses, and the environment.
Activity 01
Divide the class into two teams. One team argues that MNCs are the backbone of the Irish economy, while the other argues they make us too dependent on foreign decisions. They must use specific examples like Google, Intel, or Pfizer.
What is globalisation and what drives it?
Activity 02
Groups research the 'journey' of a typical pair of sneakers, from raw materials in one country to assembly in another and sale in Ireland. They create a map showing how many different countries were involved in making one product.
How do multinational companies impact the local Irish economy?
Activity 03
Students individually identify one way globalisation has made their life easier and one way it has made it more complicated. They pair up to compare their views on 'global brands' versus 'local shops.'
Does globalisation benefit everyone equally?
A few notes on teaching this unit
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
Globalisation is a brand new thing.
While it has accelerated recently, trade and cultural exchange have happened for centuries. Looking at the history of the Silk Road or the tea trade helps students see globalisation as an evolving process rather than a modern invention.
Multinational companies only care about Ireland's low tax rate.
While tax is a factor, MNCs also come to Ireland for our educated workforce, EU membership, and English-speaking environment. Using a 'Decision Matrix' where students rank different reasons for an MNC to move here helps broaden their perspective.
Methods used in this brief
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