Outline

Overview

An understanding of cultural differences and how to manage such differences is critical to effective management in international and multi-cultural business environments. The aim of this unit is to provide conceptual frameworks and evidence from practice that will develop an understanding of the ways in which cultures differ, how these differences can impact on management, and how cultural issues can limit organisational effectiveness. Major topics include the significance of culture in international management, the meaning and dimensions of culture, comparative international management and leadership styles, managing communication across cultures, ethics and social responsibility in global management, cross-cultural negotiation and decision-making, forming and managing global teams, and developing the international and global manager.

Unit details and rules

Academic unit	International Business
Credit points	6
Prerequisites ?	None
Corequisites ?	None
Prohibitions ?	None
Assumed knowledge ?	None
Available to study abroad and exchange students	Yes

Teaching staff

Coordinator	Connie Chan, chui.chan@sydney.edu.au

Assessment

The census date for this unit availability is 1 September 2025

Details
Criteria

Type	Description	Weight	Due	Length	Use of AI
Written exam ?	Final Exam Invigilated on-campus, closed book, written exam	40%	Formal exam period	2 hours	AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed:
Q&A following presentation, submission or placement	Group Assignment Part 2a : Spontaneous Discussion The presenting team is graded for their responses to questions.	5%	Multiple weeks	10 minutes	AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed:
In-person written or creative task	Group assignment Part 2b - questions and critique Non-presenting teams are assessed on the quality of their oral questions and written critique of cases presented by other groups over multiple weeks. To be completed and submitted by the end of the tutorial.	5%	Multiple weeks	20 mins and 600 words aprox.	AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed:
Presentation	Group Assignment Part 1: Presentation In-class presentation of selected case contents, analysis, problem-solving, teamwork and communication. There are several tasks and reporting requirements throughout the project.	20%	Multiple weeks	15 minutes	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Contribution	Participation In-class engagement, demonstrating knowledge application and advancement of collective understanding. Online participation, prework, notetaking and reflection that complement class activities would feed into various subsequent assessments.	5%	Multiple weeks	Weekly	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Out-of-class quiz	Quiz 1 Online MCQ and short answers via Canvas	5%	Week 04	8 minutes	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Out-of-class quiz	Quiz 2 Online MCQ and short answers via Canvas	5%	Week 08	8 minutes	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Written work	Individual assignment Short release written learning reflection of contents and activities covered in the semester	15%	Week 13 Due date: 09 Nov 2025 at 23:59 Closing date: 16 Nov 2025	1200 words	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
= group assignment ?

Assessment summary

Final exam: You will apply your knowledge from this unit covering the entire semester to address essay type questions on cases and scenarios provided.
Group assignment: You will work in a team to apply relevant theories/frameworks/concepts learned in this unit to analyse a cross-cultural management case. You will deliver the analysis and role play in the tutorial in specified weeks. Presenting teams lead a Q&A session and will be evaluated on their responses, and non-presenting teams on the questions they raise in other teams' Q&A sessions. Non-presenting teams will also submit a written critique of the other teams' analyses. Each team is required to complete multiple progress tasks throughout the project.
Individual participation: You will engage in various simulation exercises and discussions facilitated by teachers, and apply tools to analyse cross-cultural management cases. Your contribution to in-class and online deliverables will enable you to scaffold to various summative assessments.
Individual assignment: You will submit a written reflection on several class activities in this unit and evidence demonstrating your active participation and integrated learning and development throughout the semester.
Quizzes: You will complete online, time-limited multiple choice quizzes in scheduled weeks. These quizzes serve to reinforce learning and ensure ongoing engagement with course material.

Detailed information for each assessment can be found on Canvas. Students are encouraged to seek guidance and feedback from the teaching team throughout the semester as needed.

Assessment criteria

The University awards common result grades, set out in the Coursework Policy 2014 (Schedule 1).

As a general guide, a high distinction indicates work of an exceptional standard, a distinction a very high standard, a credit a good standard, and a pass an acceptable standard.

Result name	Mark range	Description
High distinction	85 - 100	Awarded when you demonstrate the learning outcomes for the unit at an exceptional standard, as defined by grade descriptors or exemplars outlined by your faculty or school.
Distinction	75 - 84	Awarded when you demonstrate the learning outcomes for the unit at a very high standard, as defined by grade descriptors or exemplars outlined by your faculty or school.
Credit	65 - 74	Awarded when you demonstrate the learning outcomes for the unit at a good standard, as defined by grade descriptors or exemplars outlined by your faculty or school.
Pass	50 - 64	Awarded when you demonstrate the learning outcomes for the unit at an acceptable standard, as defined by grade descriptors or exemplars outlined by your faculty or school.
Fail	0 - 49	When you don’t meet the learning outcomes of the unit to a satisfactory standard.

For more information see sydney.edu.au/students/guide-to-grades.

For more information see guide to grades.

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

You can use generative AI tools for open assessments. Restrictions on AI use apply to secure, supervised assessments used to confirm if students have met specific learning outcomes.

Refer to the assessment table above to see if AI is allowed, for assessments in this unit and check Canvas for full instructions on assessment tasks and AI use.

If you use AI, you must always acknowledge it. Misusing AI may lead to a breach of the Academic Integrity Policy.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Late submission

In accordance with University policy, these penalties apply when written work is submitted after 11:59pm on the due date:

Deduction of 5% of the maximum mark for each calendar day after the due date.
After ten calendar days late, a mark of zero will be awarded.

This unit has an exception to the standard University policy or supplementary information has been provided by the unit coordinator. This information is displayed below:

Late penalties are in accordance with University policy.

Academic integrity

The University expects students to act ethically and honestly and will treat all allegations of academic integrity breaches seriously.

Our website provides information on academic integrity and the resources available to all students. This includes advice on how to avoid common breaches of academic integrity. Ensure that you have completed the Academic Honesty Education Module (AHEM) which is mandatory for all commencing coursework students

Penalties for serious breaches can significantly impact your studies and your career after graduation. It is important that you speak with your unit coordinator if you need help with completing assessments.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Learning support

Simple extensions

If you encounter a problem submitting your work on time, you may be able to apply for an extension of five calendar days through a simple extension.  The application process will be different depending on the type of assessment and extensions cannot be granted for some assessment types like exams.

Special consideration

If exceptional circumstances mean you can’t complete an assessment, you need consideration for a longer period of time, or if you have essential commitments which impact your performance in an assessment, you may be eligible for special consideration or special arrangements.

Special consideration applications will not be affected by a simple extension application.

Using AI responsibly

Co-created with students, AI in Education includes lots of helpful examples of how students use generative AI tools to support their learning. It explains how generative AI works, the different tools available and how to use them responsibly and productively.

Support for students

The Support for Students Policy reflects the University’s commitment to supporting students in their academic journey and making the University safe for students. It is important that you read and understand this policy so that you are familiar with the range of support services available to you and understand how to engage with them.

The University uses email as its primary source of communication with students who need support under the Support for Students Policy. Make sure you check your University email regularly and respond to any communications received from the University.

Learning resources and detailed information about weekly assessment and learning activities can be accessed via Canvas. It is essential that you visit your unit of study Canvas site to ensure you are up to date with all of your tasks.

If you are having difficulties completing your studies, or are feeling unsure about your progress, we are here to help. You can access the support services offered by the University at any time:

Support and Services (including health and wellbeing services, financial support and learning support)
Course planning and administration
Meet with an Academic Adviser

Weekly schedule

WK	Topic	Learning activity
Week 01	Introduction to international cross-cultural management	Lecture (1.5 hr)
Week 01	Introduction and exercises	Tutorial (1.5 hr)
Week 02	Systematically describing cultural differences	Lecture (1.5 hr)
Week 02	Discussion and exercises	Tutorial (1.5 hr)
Week 03	Context and complexities	Lecture (1.5 hr)
Week 03	Discussion and exercises	Tutorial (1.5 hr)
Week 04	Intercultural communication	Lecture (1.5 hr)
Week 04	Discussion and exercises	Tutorial (1.5 hr)
Week 05	Motivation & managerial environment	Lecture (1.5 hr)
Week 05	Discussions and exercises	Tutorial (1.5 hr)
Week 06	Decision making & organisational environment	Lecture (1.5 hr)
Week 06	Discussions and exercises	Tutorial (1.5 hr)
Week 07	Cross-cultural negotiations and conflict resolution	Lecture (1.5 hr)
Week 07	Discussions and exercises	Tutorial (1.5 hr)
Week 08	Global leadership	Lecture (1.5 hr)
Week 08	Discussion and exercises	Tutorial (1.5 hr)
Week 09	Managing global teams	Lecture (1.5 hr)
Week 09	Group Presentation and assessments	Tutorial (1.5 hr)
Week 10	Managing multicultural individuals	Lecture (1.5 hr)
Week 10	Group Presentation and assessments	Tutorial (1.5 hr)
Week 11	Emerging issues	Lecture (1.5 hr)
Week 11	Group Presentation and assessments	Tutorial (1.5 hr)
Week 12	Review	Lecture (1.5 hr)
Week 12	Group Presentation and assessments	Tutorial (1.5 hr)
Week 13	Extension topic - Managing global assignments	Lecture (1.5 hr)
Week 13	Discussion and exercises	Tutorial (1.5 hr)

Attendance and class requirements

Lectures and Tutorials / Workshops

Attendance of all live non-clashable timetabled classes (lectures and tutorials) is required. Students who do not attend at least 80% of classes will struggle to perform at an average level due to missed content and guidance. Participation in interactive classes is encouraged as it enriches learning and leads to better outcomes.

All lectures are recorded and will be uploaded on Canvas if available. Please note that the Business School does not own the system and cannot guarantee that every class will be recorded and shared.

Study commitment

Typically, there is a minimum expectation of 1.5-2 hours of student effort per week per credit point for units of study offered over a full semester. For a 6 credit point unit, this equates to roughly 120-150 hours of student effort in total.

Required readings

All readings for this unit can be accessed via the Reading List link in Canvas.

The essential textbook for this unit is:

Steers, R. M., Osland, J. S., and Szkudlarek, B. (2024) Management across cultures : challenges, strategies, and skills . Fifth edition. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes are what students know, understand and are able to do on completion of a unit of study. They are aligned with the University's graduate qualities and are assessed as part of the curriculum.

Outcomes
Graduate qualities

At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:

LO1. compare cultures in terms of key cross-cultural dimensions and frameworks, interpret national cultural scores in a nuanced way, and demonstrate a thorough understanding of key concepts, theories, and models in cross-cultural management
LO2. critically analyse and evaluate issues in cross-cultural management scenarios, incorporating the appraisal of contextual factors, and apply relevant theories and models
LO3. formulate and justify strategic action plans to address cross-cultural management challenges, demonstrating practical application of theoretical concepts
LO4. apply theoretical knowledge of cross-cultural management to practical situations in your personal and professional lives.
LO5. critically reflect on your own cultural intelligence, including your strengths and areas for improvement, and articulate strategies for enhancing your effectiveness in cross-cultural interactions
LO6. develop and demonstrate improved communication, negotiation and teamwork skills in diverse cultural settings, particularly in the context of group projects

Graduate qualities

The graduate qualities are the qualities and skills that all University of Sydney graduates must demonstrate on successful completion of an award course. As a future Sydney graduate, the set of qualities have been designed to equip you for the contemporary world.

GQ1	Depth of disciplinary expertise Deep disciplinary expertise is the ability to integrate and rigorously apply knowledge, understanding and skills of a recognised discipline defined by scholarly activity, as well as familiarity with evolving practice of the discipline.
GQ2	Critical thinking and problem solving Critical thinking and problem solving are the questioning of ideas, evidence and assumptions in order to propose and evaluate hypotheses or alternative arguments before formulating a conclusion or a solution to an identified problem.
GQ3	Oral and written communication Effective communication, in both oral and written form, is the clear exchange of meaning in a manner that is appropriate to audience and context.
GQ4	Information and digital literacy Information and digital literacy is the ability to locate, interpret, evaluate, manage, adapt, integrate, create and convey information using appropriate resources, tools and strategies.
GQ5	Inventiveness Generating novel ideas and solutions.
GQ6	Cultural competence Cultural Competence is the ability to actively, ethically, respectfully, and successfully engage across and between cultures. In the Australian context, this includes and celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, knowledge systems, and a mature understanding of contemporary issues.
GQ7	Interdisciplinary effectiveness Interdisciplinary effectiveness is the integration and synthesis of multiple viewpoints and practices, working effectively across disciplinary boundaries.
GQ8	Integrated professional, ethical, and personal identity An integrated professional, ethical and personal identity is understanding the interaction between one’s personal and professional selves in an ethical context.
GQ9	Influence Engaging others in a process, idea or vision.

Outcome map

Learning outcomes	Graduate qualities
Learning outcomes

Responding to student feedback

This section outlines changes made to this unit following staff and student reviews.

The unit has been revised this semester to enhance alignment with learning objectives and the university's new assessment framework, and response to student feedback.

Additional information

Business School Policies

Site visit guidelines

https://www.sydney.edu.au/students/writing/help-support.html https://www.library.sydney.edu.au/help/online-training/ https://canvas.sydney.edu.au/courses/15054/pages/university-and-business-school-policies https://www.sydney.edu.au/students/learning-hub-academic-language.html

Work, health and safety

Please keep up-to-date with university guidelines on health and safety requirements on campus.

Disclaimer

The University reserves the right to amend units of study or no longer offer certain units, including where there are low enrolment numbers.

To help you understand common terms that we use at the University, we offer an online glossary.

Current students

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Attendance and class requirements

Study commitment

Required readings

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Additional information

Additional information

Site visit guidelines

Work, health and safety

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links

IBUS6002: Cross-Cultural Management

Semester 2, 2025 [Normal day] - Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Attendance and class requirements

Study commitment

Required readings

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Additional information

Additional information

Site visit guidelines

Work, health and safety

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links