Politics and Society · 5th Year · Globalisation and Localisation · 4.º Período

Understanding Globalisation

Students will define globalisation and examine its economic, political, and social dimensions. The topic evaluates how global trade and multinational corporations impact the Irish economy.

TL;DR:This topic introduces globalisation as a multi-dimensional process that connects the world economically, politically, and culturally. Students examine how Ireland, as one of the most globalised countries in the world, is uniquely shaped by global trade, multinational corporations (MNCs), and international agreements. The unit covers the benefits of globalisation, such as economic growth and cultural exchange, alongside its critiques, including the loss of local sovereignty and the 'race to the bottom' in labor standards.

• NCCA Curriculum Specifications
• Leaving Certificate Politics and Society, Strand 4, LO 4.1
• Leaving Certificate Politics and Society, Strand 4, LO 4.2

About This Topic

This topic introduces globalisation as a multi-dimensional process that connects the world economically, politically, and culturally. Students examine how Ireland, as one of the most globalised countries in the world, is uniquely shaped by global trade, multinational corporations (MNCs), and international agreements. The unit covers the benefits of globalisation, such as economic growth and cultural exchange, alongside its critiques, including the loss of local sovereignty and the 'race to the bottom' in labor standards.

For Irish students, this isn't just theory, it's the reality of the companies they see in their towns (Google, Intel, Pfizer) and the products they consume. Understanding these global flows is essential for navigating the modern economy. This topic comes alive when students can physically model the patterns of global supply chains and engage in collaborative investigations into where their own everyday items come from.

Key Questions

1. What is globalisation?
2. How does economic globalisation affect the Irish economy?
3. Who are the primary beneficiaries of global trade?

Watch Out for These Misconceptions

Common Misconception

Globalisation is only about money and trade.

What to Teach Instead

Globalisation also has political (the EU, UN) and cultural (social media, global music) dimensions. A 'Dimensions of Globalisation' sorting activity helps students see that it affects how we are governed and how we see ourselves, not just what we buy.

Common Misconception

Globalisation is a new phenomenon from the 21st century.

What to Teach Instead

While it has accelerated recently, globalisation has roots in centuries of trade and colonialism. Comparing the 'Old Silk Road' to modern digital trade helps students see it as a long-term historical process.

Active Learning Ideas

Inquiry Circle

The 'Global Item' Audit

Students choose one everyday item (a smartphone, a pair of runners, a chocolate bar) and work in small groups to trace its 'global journey.' They must identify where the raw materials were sourced, where it was assembled, and where the company is headquartered. They present their findings as a 'Global Map' of the product.

50 min·Small Groups

Simulation Game

The FDI Pitch

Students are divided into 'National Development Agencies' from different countries (including Ireland). They must create a pitch to attract a major tech MNC to their country, highlighting their 'competitive advantages' (tax rates, education, infrastructure). This surfaces the reality of global economic competition.

60 min·Small Groups

Think-Pair-Share

Cultural Globalisation, Loss or Gain?

Students individually list three ways their life is 'more global' than their grandparents' (e.g., food, music, language). They pair up to discuss whether this represents a 'loss' of Irish culture or a 'gain' in diversity. Share the most interesting perspectives with the class to explore the 'cultural dimension' of globalisation.

25 min·Pairs

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Ireland considered so highly globalised?

Ireland has an 'open economy,' meaning we rely heavily on international trade and Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). Because we are a small island, we export most of what we produce and import much of what we consume. Our membership in the EU and our role as a 'bridge' for US companies into Europe are key factors.

What are the best hands-on strategies for teaching globalisation?

Supply chain mapping is the best active strategy. When students physically trace the components of a phone across five continents, the abstract concept of 'interdependence' becomes a concrete reality. It also naturally leads to questions about labor rights and environmental impact in different parts of the world.

How does globalisation affect Irish sovereignty?

This is a key debate in the curriculum. By joining the EU and signing international trade deals, Ireland agrees to follow certain rules. Some see this as a 'loss' of power, while others argue that by 'pooling sovereignty' with other nations, Ireland actually gains more influence on the global stage.

What is the 'Race to the Bottom'?

This refers to the fear that globalisation causes countries to lower their environmental or labor standards to attract MNCs who are looking for the cheapest place to do business. Discussing this helps students understand the 'dark side' of global economic competition.