Politics and Society · 6th Year · Globalisation and Localisation · 4.º Período

The Process of Globalisation

Students investigate the economic, cultural, and political dimensions of globalization. The topic examines how global interconnectedness affects local communities.

TL;DR:Globalisation is the process of increasing interconnectedness between countries and people. This topic examines its three main pillars: economic (trade and multinational corporations), cultural (the spread of ideas and media), and political (the role of international organizations). Students analyze how these forces impact Ireland, a small, open economy that is highly integrated into global systems.

• NCCA Curriculum Specifications
• LO 4.1: Describe the key features of globalisation
• LO 4.2: Analyse the economic and cultural impacts of globalisation

About This Topic

Globalisation is the process of increasing interconnectedness between countries and people. This topic examines its three main pillars: economic (trade and multinational corporations), cultural (the spread of ideas and media), and political (the role of international organizations). Students analyze how these forces impact Ireland, a small, open economy that is highly integrated into global systems.

Students explore both the benefits of globalisation, such as economic growth and cultural exchange, and its drawbacks, such as the loss of local industries and cultural homogenization. This topic is ideal for collaborative investigations where students track the 'global journey' of everyday products or use station rotations to explore different perspectives on global trade from the Global North and Global South.

Key Questions

1. What are the main drivers of globalization?
2. How does economic globalization impact local industries?
3. In what ways does cultural globalization affect national identity?

Watch Out for These Misconceptions

Common Misconception

Globalisation is a brand new phenomenon from the 21st century.

What to Teach Instead

While it has accelerated, globalisation has historical roots in trade routes like the Silk Road and the era of colonialism. Comparing modern trade with historical patterns helps students see it as a long-term process.

Common Misconception

Globalisation is only about big companies and money.

What to Teach Instead

It also involves the movement of people, the spread of diseases, the sharing of scientific knowledge, and the global reach of social movements. Using examples like the 'Fridays for Future' movement shows the political side of globalisation.

Active Learning Ideas

Stations Rotation

The Three Pillars of Globalisation

Set up three stations (Economic, Cultural, Political). At each, students analyze a specific artifact (e.g., an iPhone, a Netflix trailer, a UN resolution) to see how it demonstrates global interconnectedness.

40 min·Small Groups

Inquiry Circle

The Life of a T-Shirt

Groups trace a common consumer item from raw material to disposal. they must identify the different countries involved and the working conditions at each stage, highlighting the complexity of global supply chains.

45 min·Small Groups

Think-Pair-Share

Cultural Homogenization vs. Hybridization

Students discuss whether the world is becoming 'one single culture' (homogenization) or if global influences are being mixed with local traditions to create something new (hybridization), using examples from Irish music or food.

20 min·Pairs

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the 'race to the bottom' in economic globalisation?

This refers to a situation where countries compete to attract multinational corporations by lowering labor standards, environmental regulations, and corporate taxes. This can lead to a decline in quality of life and environmental protection globally.

How has globalisation affected Irish national identity?

Globalisation has made Ireland more diverse and connected, but some fear it dilutes traditional Irish culture and language. Others argue it has allowed Irish culture (like dance and literature) to reach a global audience more effectively.

How can active learning help students understand globalisation?

Globalisation can feel too big to grasp. Active learning 'shrinks' the concept by having students investigate the global links in their own pockets and homes. By mapping supply chains or debating the impact of MNCs on local towns, students see globalisation as a series of human decisions rather than an unstoppable force of nature.

What is the role of the World Trade Organization (WTO)?

The WTO is the only international organization dealing with the global rules of trade between nations. Its main function is to ensure that trade flows as smoothly, predictably, and freely as possible by negotiating agreements and settling disputes.