Course Description

In the current era of the Industrial Revolution 4.0 and Society 5.0, digital technology has become an inseparable part of society’s activities. Digital technology has become an enabler for the emergence of various innovations, including in economic relations between entities in the world that are now increasingly interdependent. International economic practices are now increasingly synergizing forms of key technologies such as artificial intelligence. In addition to providing new colors in trade practices and increasing competitiveness, technological innovation is an instrument that can also encourage progress in the implementation of a circular economy as a form of attention to aspects of sustainability in the economic sector. Therefore, the trend of digital transformation has now become the estuary of international economic practices that are important to study. To deepen understanding of these issues, the International Economics in the Era of Digital Transformation class aims to introduce students to three learning subtopics: (1) International Economics and Digital Transformation; (2) Competitiveness, Trade, and the Circular Economy; and (3) Cutting-edge technological innovation in the form of artificial intelligence and the ethics surrounding it, where this subtopic will specifically involve lecturers from Hiroshima University.

Expected Learning Outcome

1. Explain and understand concepts related to international economics in specific topics in the areas of digital transformation, competitiveness, and global citizenship ethics in technological development.
2. Understand and analyze trends and phenomena related to digital technological transformation and development, particularly in the context of international competitiveness, which is interpreted as part of global citizenship ethics.
3. Identify various new actors emerging as a result of digital transformation in the broader international economy and how they influence the digital policymaking process, including in the context of citizen and/or other community members’ involvement in that process at the domestic and global levels.
4. Apply concepts and theories in real-world practice and research projects related to international economics and digital transformation.
5. Use critical analysis and demonstrate scientific skills in examining relevant contemporary issues.
6. Develop effective writing and communication skills through various in-class assignments.

Syllabus

Read the full syllabus here.