Active learning ideas
This topic examines the economic double-edged sword of globalisation. Students analyze how it creates wealth through trade and investment while simultaneously creating winners and losers within and between nations. In the Singapore context, this involves looking at how our economy attracts MNCs and the subsequent need for our workforce to constantly upskill to remain competitive.
Activity 01
Divide the class into two sides: one representing the benefits MNCs bring to host countries (jobs, tech transfer) and the other representing the challenges (competition for locals, profit repatriation). Students use evidence from the SS textbook to argue their positions.
How does globalisation impact economic growth?
Activity 02
Students are assigned roles as high-skilled workers, low-skilled workers, or business owners. They must negotiate 'contracts' based on global economic shifts, illustrating why income inequality occurs when certain skills become more valuable than others.
Who are the winners and losers in a globalised economy?
Activity 03
Place case studies of different countries (e.g., China's growth vs. rust belt decline in the US) around the room. Students circulate in pairs to identify the specific economic impacts and record them on a comparison chart.
How can countries manage economic disruptions?
A few notes on teaching this unit
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
Globalisation only benefits rich countries and harms developing ones.
This is a common oversimplification. Teachers can use data from emerging economies like Vietnam or India to show how globalisation has lifted millions out of poverty, even if inequality remains an issue. Active data analysis helps students see the nuances.
MNCs are always bad for local businesses.
While competition is real, MNCs often create a 'multiplier effect' by hiring local suppliers. A role-play between a local supplier and an MNC manager can help students understand the symbiotic relationships that can form.
Methods used in this brief
Driving Forces of Globalisation
Understand the technological and political developments that accelerate global interconnectedness. Students will explore how advancements in transport and communications shrink the world.
8 methodologies
Cultural Impacts of Globalisation
Explore the tension between cultural homogenization and the preservation of local identities in a globalised world. Students will reflect on the influence of global media on youth culture.
8 methodologies