Innovation, technology and multinational enterprises (MNEs) have an intimate relationship: multinational firms are responsible for a large amount of business R&D activities world-wide and shape the competitive advantages of countries to a considerable degree; advantages from innovation are often the reason why firms become multinational. New technologies, in particular information and communication technologies, were a main driver of the emergence of global value chains since the 1970s. We will examine various aspects of this relationship, including innovation in MNEs, how new technologies change global value chains, and the management of knowledge in multinational firms.
Contents include:
•    Innovation: sources, determinants, and effects
•    Multinational firms and global value chains
•    Innovation in MNEs: drivers, challenges, and management
•    The internationalization of R&D
•    The impact of new technologies on global value chains
•    Multinational firms and national systems of innovation- a difficult relationship
•    Emerging countries MNEs and technology

The course will teach the basics of the economics of R&D and technological change. Moreover, students will learn what challenges MNEs face in developing and managing innovation and new technologies, as well as how new technologies shape global value chains and the activities of MNEs.

Participation is mandatory. However, one unit can be missed

The course format combines introductory lectures with student presentations and discussions. Students will work on various topics in teams.

20% In-class Participation

40% Presentation

40% Final Exam