http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/ en tutor2u.net Copyright 2012 2012-02-08T19:33:14+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/competitiveness http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/competitiveness#When:19:33:14Z A useful blog entry for teachers and students of Economics and Business & Management 2012-02-08T19:33:14+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/uwp-mission-to-loyka-week-3-activity http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/uwp-mission-to-loyka-week-3-activity#When:14:44:29Z This week’s activity is for students (and teachers if they like) to create a podcast of the UWP Mission to Loyka case study. IB Business & Management, 2012-02-03T14:44:29+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/the-january-quiz http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/the-january-quiz#When:16:31:17Z Kung Hei Fat Choi!  Happy Chinese New Year of the Dragon. Which BRIC country finally joined the WTO?  Which luxury carmaker enjoyed record-breaking sales - a record held since 1978 - despite the global recession?  Take the January Quiz to find out… IB Business & Management, 2012-02-02T16:31:17+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/paper-1-case-study-uwp-mission-to-loyka1 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/paper-1-case-study-uwp-mission-to-loyka1#When:12:45:36Z Welcome back and Happy New Year! I’ve uploaded three revision games based on the UWP case study on Zondle… IB Business & Management, 2012-01-10T12:45:36+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/50-questions-on-paper-1-case-study-uwp-mission-to-loyka http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/50-questions-on-paper-1-case-study-uwp-mission-to-loyka#When:02:48:22Z I have uploaded 50 questions on the Business & Management Paper 1 case study:  UWP Mission to LOYKA.  Read here IB Business & Management, 2011-12-16T02:48:22+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/section-1-market-failure-6-types-of-market-failure http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/section-1-market-failure-6-types-of-market-failure#When:10:48:27Z This excellent clip from Phil Holden summaries the 6 types of market failure. An excellent revision resource, great the day before an end of topic test. IB Economics, Resources and Markets, 2011-12-13T10:48:27+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/the-role-of-non-profit-organizations-useful-article-for-b-m-paper-1-case-st http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/the-role-of-non-profit-organizations-useful-article-for-b-m-paper-1-case-st#When:07:35:29Z With the focus of the IB Business and Management Paper 1 case study on non-profit organizations (NPOs), I found this interesting article, written by Laurence Lien, the Chairman of Lien Foundation, on the role of non-profit organizations.  Although his writings relate to Singapore, there are a lot of linkages one can establish between the Government of a country and NPOs.  As one reads through the article, there is an interesting mention made of a hospital scenario.  I thought this article relates perfectly to the case study, especially with the United World Peace Mission (UWP) contemplating on constructing either a hospital or a university at Loyka.  By comparing government programmes to the big stones in a container and NPO programmes to the small stones filling the remaining gaps, Laurence acknowledges that NPOs can be a rich source of innovation and experimentation and that the public sector should welcome and encourage the proliferation of new ideas from the NPOs. Read more here ……….. IB Business & Management, 2011-12-12T07:35:29+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/paper-1-case-study-uwp-mission-to-loyka http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/paper-1-case-study-uwp-mission-to-loyka#When:13:06:04Z The new Paper 1 case study (for May 2012 and Nov 2012) was released at the beginning of the month.  No doubt, teachers and students will be working hard on this to prepare for the final examinations.  I’ll be posting weekly activities to get us all familiar with the United World Peace Mission to Loyka… IB Business & Management, 2011-12-10T13:06:04+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/zondle-revision-games http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/zondle-revision-games#When:13:51:28Z I’ve uploaded a few B&M revision quizzes on Zondle. IB Business & Management, 2011-12-01T13:51:28+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/the-november-quiz http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/the-november-quiz#When:11:39:09Z This month’s November current affairs quiz is packed with questions from the airline and motor industries, and plenty about the BRIC economies.  And a Premier League football club has proved you can’t run a business at a loss, however much you think your star players are worth. How many of the 46 questions can you answer?  Take the November quiz to find out… IB Business & Management, 2011-11-27T11:39:09+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/whats-behind-the-human-instinct-to-trust http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/whats-behind-the-human-instinct-to-trust#When:03:10:06Z Neuro economist, Paul Zak demonstrates how the hormone oxytocin promotes a variety of virtuous behaviors in humans such as trust, empathy and generosity. After ten years of research, Paul Zak established that oxytocin is the “moral molecule”.  Click here for Paul Zak’s TED TALK on Trust, morality – and oxytocin. Theory of Knowledge, 2011-11-16T03:10:06+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/googles-turnaround-strategy http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/googles-turnaround-strategy#When:01:02:40Z With the Chief Executive dismissed just under two months ago, Yahoo is all set to undergo a strategic review.  The internet giant must decide whether to go alone or succumb to suitors.  Bidders range from China’s Alibaba to AOL and Microsoft apart from a few others, although Yahoo turned down Microsoft’s offer of $47.5 billion just three years ago, a very costly mistake which has seen its share price fall from $33 to a mere $16 now.  However Yahoo is initiating minor internal adjustments to its capital restructuring process to avoid a hostile takeover, in the process, irking a few stakeholders.  Is this turnaround strategy enough for Yahoo to revive its market share from rivals Google, Apple and Facebook? Read more here ..... IB Business & Management, 2011-11-10T01:02:40+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/the-no-frills-travel-market http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/the-no-frills-travel-market#When:02:18:20Z This week saw two new budget airlines being launched in the burgeoning no-frills travel market.  Both airlines have focused on their brand names to show that their airline is indeed different.  Singapore Airlines announced SCOOT, a new long-haul budget carrier to compete against Air Asia and Jet Star.  In the wake of the Qantas debacle, a new budget air line was unveiled yesterday in Brisbane.  Sporting the iconic green and gold colors, AIR AUSTRALIA is the new brand name for Strategic Airlines, which has been around for almost 20 years.  With a soaring Australian dollar and a high demand for travel in Asia, this week’s announcement is strategic given that the global economy is slowing and fuel costs are going through the roof. Read more on Scoot and Air Australia IB Business & Management, 2011-11-04T02:18:20+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/the-october-quiz http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/the-october-quiz#When:14:36:11Z Starting this month, I’ll be posting a monthly current affairs quiz for B&M students and teachers.  It’s common knowledge that IB examiners prefer (and in some cases require) answers that use real world examples.  There are 30 questions in this month’s current affairs quiz… IB Business & Management, 2011-11-01T14:36:11+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/linear-supply-equations-hl-paper-3 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/linear-supply-equations-hl-paper-3#When:08:41:54Z One of many great lectures by Jason Welker.  The lecture below introduces linear supply equations, a topic new to the IB Economics syllabus. 2011-10-27T08:41:54+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/how-do-we-know-who-we-are http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/how-do-we-know-who-we-are#When:08:02:26Z Watch Marcus Du Sautoy in this documentary where he embarks into a journey of ‘self awareness’. Marcus subjects himself to a series of experiments in his search for answers to the mysterious question:  How do we know who we are?  Does the unconscious mind preside over the conscious mind?  Is a sense of ‘self’ a trick of the ‘mind’?  Watch the entire documentary to know the answers.  It’s a great way to introduce TOK and the Ways of Knowing of Reason, Emotion and Perception to students. Theory of Knowledge, 2011-10-25T08:02:26+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/the-hyperconnected-world http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/the-hyperconnected-world#When:03:36:52Z In this article, Thomas L. Friedman highlights how today’s hyperconnected world requires white-collar workers to compete with a bigger pool of cheap geniuses, some of whom are robots, microchips and soft-ware guided machines.  Thanks to iphones, Facebook, Skype, amongst others.  Just under a decade ago, the connected world was a challenge to blue-collar workers.  Thanks to globalization, outsourcing and the internet.  Thomas L Friedman points out that for us teachers, the challenge is to inspire our students to be the ’better’ and ‘best’ people in today’s hyperconnected world.  Read the article here ... IB Business & Management, 2011-10-25T03:36:52+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/cpi-index-khan-acamdemy http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/cpi-index-khan-acamdemy#When:07:01:17Z This viedo is a brilliant resource from the Khan Academy. Particularly useful for the new HL Paper 3 Data Response Exam. 2011-10-21T07:01:17+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/stephanomics http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/stephanomics#When:10:55:04Z A brief heads up for a new series on BBC Radio 4 tomorrow- Stephanomics. BBC economics editor Stephanie Flanders takes her popular blog to radio form. In the first episode tomorrow at 3pm she discusses the current global financial crisis with a range of experts from the field. Should be worth a listen. IB Economics, International Issues, Macroeconomic Arguments, 2011-10-18T10:55:04+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/http-www.u.tv-News-High-street-spend-falls-in-NI-d47d3129-55e8-4fda-9ad3 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/http-www.u.tv-News-High-street-spend-falls-in-NI-d47d3129-55e8-4fda-9ad3#When:20:23:58Z An excellent clip to introduce the concept of consumption with students. Retailers in towns and cities across Northern Ireland are feeling the financial squeeze as shoppers are spending less than before. 2011-10-13T20:23:58+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/what-knowledge-changes-your-perception-of-whether-or-not-something-is-beaut http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/what-knowledge-changes-your-perception-of-whether-or-not-something-is-beaut#When:17:49:46Z Join this TED discussion click here click here for Richard Seymour’s video - ‘How beauty feels’ Theory of Knowledge, Emotion, Perception, 2011-10-13T17:49:46+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/simple-demand-functions-ib-hl-p3 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/simple-demand-functions-ib-hl-p3#When:18:18:37Z For the IB new HL P3 data response paper, there seems to be an inherent lack of teaching material out there. Here is something I have put together based on some of my teaching resources used with my L6th classes this week. Surprisingly, my students raced through this material in less than one lesson and have grasped this concept with ease. 2011-10-08T18:18:37+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/science-and-emotion http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/science-and-emotion#When:00:52:36Z Should scientists be emotionless?  Should they present cold, hard facts with no emotion whatsoever?  Is it possible to argue a scientific point by bringing in emotion?  These questions are raised in this interesting Science Blog. Theory of Knowledge, Emotion, 2011-10-06T00:52:36+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/How-are-petrol-prices-determined-by-retailers-in-Australia http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/How-are-petrol-prices-determined-by-retailers-in-Australia#When:02:46:34Z This article raises many interesting questions on how the petrol price rises consistently over weekends and public holidays in Australia.  Is there a correlation between higher demand from cars on the roads and therefore higher prices for fuel (based on market forces) or is it an artificial increase by retailers based on guidelines from their Associations or is it fueled by supermarket discount dockets or some other factors?  Read the article ........ 2011-10-05T02:46:34+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/unit-25-motivation http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/unit-25-motivation#When:04:31:00Z This year’s Forbes Rich List of the wealthiest Americans has been published. There is no surprise who is top, but how many women feature in the top 10 and how many people in the top 10 are related to one another?  Read on to find out… IB Business & Management, 2011-09-24T04:31:00+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/marketing-condoms http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/marketing-condoms#When:09:14:00Z A short but fascinating TED talk entitled ‘Selling Condoms in Congo’ looks at a key development issue, AIDS, from the marketing persepctive. IB Economics, Business Economics, Development Economics, International Issues, Resources and Markets, 2011-09-22T09:14:00+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/unit-21-labour-productivity-the-angry-birds-effect http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/unit-21-labour-productivity-the-angry-birds-effect#When:16:49:00Z Here’s a great visual to add to your PowerPoint presentations, class notes or as a stimulus for a starter/plenary when teaching labour productivity. So what really is the estimated opportunity cost of Angry Birds in the workplace?  And just how much is Rovio estimated to be worth now?!  Read on to find out… IB Business & Management, 2011-09-17T16:49:00+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/does-democracy-stifle-economic-growth http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/does-democracy-stifle-economic-growth#When:14:23:01Z To spice up the possibly mundane lesson on Production Possibility Frontier’s I made use of this fantastic TED talk by Yasheng Huang. IB Economics, Development Economics, International Issues, Macroeconomic Arguments, Resources and Markets, 2011-09-15T14:23:01+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/the-muttering-hat http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/the-muttering-hat#When:21:07:00Z Artist Kate Hartman uses wearable electronics to explore how we communicate, with ourselves and with the world. In this quirky and thought-provoking talk she shows the “Talk To Yourself Hat” and the “Muttering Hat”. 2011-09-14T21:07:00+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/what-language-do-deaf-people-think-in http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/what-language-do-deaf-people-think-in#When:21:33:00Z What language do deaf people think in? Can we think without language? If you had never heard language would you use it to articulate your thoughts? Do babies think in a language of sorts? If you can’t articulate your internal thoughts in linguistic form have you really thought them at all? Is language integral to our understanding of ourselves? Do we need our brain chatter to be formed into words, rather than feelings, in order to make sense of our emotions? Theory of Knowledge, Language, 2011-09-13T21:33:00+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/whisky-ia http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/whisky-ia#When:06:59:00Z IB students should always be on the lookout for suitable articles to complete their internal assessment. This alcohol related piece from the BBC website is ideal. IB Economics, International Issues, Macroeconomic Arguments, Resources and Markets, 2011-09-13T06:59:00+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/morrisonss-results http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/morrisonss-results#When:12:41:00Z I always try and make reference to businesses found in town. The students often find it easier to relate to and analyse. Morrisons is the the major supermarket in the town centre and last week they published promising results especially given the bleak economic times. IB Economics, Business Economics, Resources and Markets, 2011-09-11T12:41:00+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/th http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/th#When:12:35:00Z The Rugby World Cup kicked off this morning with an impressive victory for the hosts but what are the economic benefits of hosting such an event? IB Economics, Business Economics, International Issues, Macroeconomic Arguments, 2011-09-09T12:35:00+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/the-new-ib-economics-course-4-macroeconomics http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/the-new-ib-economics-course-4-macroeconomics#When:14:28:00Z The major changes to the macroeconomics course are as follows… IB Economics, Development Economics, International Issues, Macroeconomic Arguments, 2011-09-08T14:28:00+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/the-new-ib-economics-course-3-microeconomics http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/the-new-ib-economics-course-3-microeconomics#When:14:22:00Z The major changes/additions to the microeconomics course are as follows… IB Economics, Business Economics, Resources and Markets, 2011-09-08T14:22:00+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/the-new-ib-economics-course-2 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/the-new-ib-economics-course-2#When:14:20:00Z The Introduction The new course has no formal introductory section but teachers are advised to spend time explaining why economics is a social science and introduce the concepts of scarcity and choice. The following four themes run through the course: • The extent to which governments should intervene in the allocation of resources • The threat to sustainability as a result of the current patterns of resource allocation • The extent to which the goal of economic efficiency may conflict with the goal of equity • The distinction between economic growth and economic development. I aim to head on straight into the heart of micro and macro economics interweaving the above mentioned themes through the use of lots of real world examples. IB Economics, 2011-09-08T14:20:00+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/the-new-ib-economics-course http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/the-new-ib-economics-course#When:14:11:00Z I am now a couple of days into teaching the new IB Economics spec and am excited about the challenges that lie ahead. IB Economics, 2011-09-08T14:11:00+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/why-cant-computers-think http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/why-cant-computers-think#When:09:06:00Z With increasingly advanced computers being developed all the time Artificial Intelligence is no longer the reserve of science fiction novels. However, it has so far remained impossible to develop a computer which can fool humans into thinking it is also human. It’s thought processes have not lacked complexity but what is it that sets human thought apart from that of a computer? Theory of Knowledge, 2011-09-08T09:06:00+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/55-location-and-tok http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/55-location-and-tok#When:16:20:00Z It’s the start of the new academic year for many centres, and here’s a starter for teaching Unit 5.5 Location.  The USA has, for the 3rd year running, slipped in the annual ‘Global Competitiveness’ league table compiled by the World Economic Forum.  Which country is number 1?  Is Britain in the top 10?  Whilst there is no real surprise about Greece, which position has Hong Kong soared to?  Read more to find out… IB Business & Management, 2011-09-07T16:20:00+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/exam-tip-8-the-stop-principle http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/exam-tip-8-the-stop-principle#When:01:26:00Z With the exams just 10 days away, here’s this week’s top exam tip to help with evaluation - the STOP principle… IB Business & Management, 2011-05-09T01:26:00+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/ipad2-in-the-classroom-apps-for-teaching http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/ipad2-in-the-classroom-apps-for-teaching#When:05:48:00Z Some of the apps I am currently using either in the classroom or for developing lessons. 2011-05-06T05:48:00+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/ipad2-in-the-classroom http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/ipad2-in-the-classroom#When:05:31:01Z Having recovered from teaching on the ESF Economics and then the Business and Management revision courses I am now focused on iPad2 in the classroom. 2011-05-05T05:31:01+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/the-multiplier http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/the-multiplier#When:12:19:00Z A very common topic in the short answer paper, at Higher Level, is the multiplier. If you have learnt a working example this is a question you should aim for full marks in. Make sure you understand why different values for the multiplier result in different changes to national income. I have attached a worksheet that includes a variety of past exam questions. Multiplier_Revision_Worksheet.doc IB Economics, Macroeconomic Arguments, 2011-05-03T12:19:00+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/diagrams1 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/diagrams1#When:09:09:02Z As with all Economics qualifications the IBO places heavy emphasis on the effective use of diagrams. It is vital in the final two weeks before the exam that you take the time to learn precisely every digram outlined in the syllabus. You should be using diagrams in all three papers (two at standard level), the data response paper explicitly tests your understanding of them. In the data response paper part b) and c) in every question will begin “using a diagram…”. Given that there are 4 marks available for each part and you have three questions to answer 24 out of a possible 60 marks, in this paper, are directly available for effective use and understanding of diagrams. Get drawing! IB Economics, 2011-04-28T09:09:02+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/reach-out-case-study-toolkit-ibdp-business-management-2011 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/reach-out-case-study-toolkit-ibdp-business-management-2011#When:07:28:00Z Our revision toolkit for the Reach Out case study for IBDP Business & Management in 2011 is still available.  Adam Dean, Head of Commerce & IT at Emirates International School - Jumeirah, has produced a comprehensive analysis of the Reach Out case, including a mock exam paper.  This resource can now be ordered from the tutor2u online store here: Download sample pages from the Reach Out revision toolkit IB Business & Management, 2011-04-27T07:28:00+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/exam-tip-7 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/exam-tip-7#When:05:23:00Z With the Easter holidays in full swing, May 2011 candidates are busy preparing for their final IB exams.  This week’s ‘top tip’ for the B&M exams is about improving evaluation skills… IB Business & Management, 2011-04-18T05:23:00+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/the-2012-london-olympic-games-how-to-measure-its-success http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/the-2012-london-olympic-games-how-to-measure-its-success#When:04:29:00Z In this podcast, Prof. Sir Andrew Likierman of London Business School highlights how the success of the London 2012 Olympics should be measured and discusses the challenges of satisfying multiple stakeholders.  A perfect case study to teach Organizational objectives and Stakeholder analysis.  Listen to the podcast here…. 2011-04-14T04:29:00+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/exam-tip-6-the-dead-and-deader-principles http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/exam-tip-6-the-dead-and-deader-principles#When:15:32:00Z With just a week to go before the Easter holidays (in this part of the world anyway), May 2011 candidates will be busy preparing for their final IB exams.  Here’s this week’s ‘top tip’ for the B&M exams courtesy of Brett Hillman and Fiona Charnley from Australia… IB Business & Management, 2011-04-11T15:32:00+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/exam-tip-5-tackling-the-paper-1-case-study http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/exam-tip-5-tackling-the-paper-1-case-study#When:17:09:00Z With just over 2 weeks to go before the Easter holidays, May 2011 candidates will be busy preparing for their final IB exams.  Here’s this week’s ‘top tip’ for the B&M exams… IB Business & Management, 2011-03-30T17:09:00+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/the-royal-wedding-and-the-explosion-of-new-media-options http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/the-royal-wedding-and-the-explosion-of-new-media-options#When:15:22:00Z The internet, mobile phone technology and social media, along with television will result in nearly 35% of the world’s population watching the royal wedding next month.  Even entrenched media giants such as CNN and BBC, not to mention cable channels such as Disney and several broadcasters are designing strategies to reach out to wider audience.  Why so much of the world will stop for the royal wedding, surpassing any other previous notable event in the world?  The answer lies in the vivid display of new media options.  Read the article here …… 2011-03-26T15:22:00+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/tok1 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/tok1#When:21:36:00Z Information designer Tom Wujec talks through three areas of the brain that help us understand words, images, feelings, connections. How can we best engage our brains to help us better understand big ideas? This is a great ‘Beginners Guide to Brain Function’. click here for the link Theory of Knowledge, Perception, 2011-03-23T21:36:00+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/exam-tips-for-upcoming-bm-exams-tip-4 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/exam-tips-for-upcoming-bm-exams-tip-4#When:14:55:02Z With less than 4 weeks to go before many students leave school for the Easter holidays and prepare for their final IB exams, each week I will be posting a ‘top tip’ for the B&M exams. Here’s the fourth in the series… IB Business & Management, 2011-03-23T14:55:02+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/u6th-ib-economists http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/u6th-ib-economists#When:15:35:01Z I will, in just over a week’s time, be saying goodbye to my U6th IB Economists as they head off for their Easter break and preparation for their final papers. Over the coming days and weeks I will be making a regular series of postings to help students with this revision process. IB Economics, 2011-03-21T15:35:01+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/reach-out-quiz-3 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/reach-out-quiz-3#When:16:58:00Z IBDP Business and Management students will be busy preparing for the Paper 1 pre-release case study.  How well do you know Reach Out?  Take the 3rd in the series of the 10-question quiz to find out… IB Business & Management, 2011-03-17T16:58:00+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/human-resources-strategies-to-motivate-employees-in-the-retail-industry-a-c http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/human-resources-strategies-to-motivate-employees-in-the-retail-industry-a-c#When:05:22:00Z Coles and Woolworths have always been the leading supermarket chains in Australia.  Of late, IGA is rising as a third force in the grocery retail business.  The success behind IGA is attributed to the Human Resource strategies of its parent company, Metcash.  Right from having a solid internal communications process to offering professional development opportunities for employees, Metcash has taken a number of initiatives to keep its staff motivated.  This case study offers practical insights into Herzberg’s motivational factors of job enrichment and job advancement.  Read the human resources strategies used by Metcash here ………… 2011-03-16T05:22:00+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/exam-tips-for-upcoming-bm-exams-tip-3 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/exam-tips-for-upcoming-bm-exams-tip-3#When:14:43:01Z With 5 weeks to go before many students leave school for the Easter holidays and prepare for their final IB exams, each week I will be posting a ‘top tip’ for the B&M exams. Here’s the third in the series… IB Business & Management, 2011-03-15T14:43:01+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/exam-tips-for-upcoming-bm-exams-tip-2 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/exam-tips-for-upcoming-bm-exams-tip-2#When:15:53:00Z With 6 weeks to go before many students leave school for the Easter holidays and prepare for their final IB exams, each week I will be posting a ‘top tip’ for the B&M exams.  Here’s the second in the series… IB Business & Management, 2011-03-09T15:53:00+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/model-united-nations-development-programme-2011-istanbul-turkey http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/model-united-nations-development-programme-2011-istanbul-turkey#When:16:48:01Z In early March, I was privileged to have been invited to the Koç School in Istanbul, Turkey.  The students I met were absolutely amazing – academic geniuses with real personalities and humbleness.  This blog is dedicated to them… IB Business & Management, 2011-03-07T16:48:01+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/reach-out-quiz-2 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/reach-out-quiz-2#When:17:15:01Z IBDP Business and Management students will be busy preparing for the Paper 1 pre-release case study.  How well do you know Reach Out?  Take the second in the series of the 10-question quiz to find out.  BTW, next month is Austism Awareness Month… IB Business & Management, 2011-03-06T17:15:01+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/rebranding-starbucks http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/rebranding-starbucks#When:04:29:00Z Starbucks is set to change its logo on its 40th anniversary this year.  However, thanks to the power of the internet, fans protested this change through blogs and tweets.  Howard Schultz, the CEO of Starbucks has unveiled ambitious plans of selling alcohol as well as coffee apart from selling Starbucks-branded goods in supermarkets.  Will Starbucks join the likes of Gap and Tropicana (who had to revert back to their original logo after consumer protests) or will Starbucks’ new logo become a force to be reckoned with in the emerging world of alcohol as well as the entrenched market of coffee?  Read the article here………. 2011-03-04T04:29:00+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/current-affairs-quiz-23 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/current-affairs-quiz-23#When:09:12:00Z So where is the best place on the planet to live?  And why are the BRICs all over the news?  Take this week’s CAQ to find out… IB Business & Management, 2011-03-03T09:12:00+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/exam-tips-for-upcoming-bm-exams http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/exam-tips-for-upcoming-bm-exams#When:17:52:00Z With about 7 weeks to go before many students leave school for the Easter holidays and prepare for their final IB exams, each week I will be posting a ‘top tip’ for the B&M exams. Here’s the first in the series… IB Business & Management, 2011-02-28T17:52:00+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/reach-out-quiz-1 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/reach-out-quiz-1#When:18:32:00Z IBDP Business and Management students will be busy preparing for the Paper 1 pre-release case study.  How well do you know Reach Out?  Take this 10-question quiz to find out… IB Business & Management, 2011-02-25T18:32:00+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/current-affairs-quiz-first-in-the-year-of-the-rabbit1 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/current-affairs-quiz-first-in-the-year-of-the-rabbit1#When:16:38:01Z We’re back from the Chinese New Year holidays, so here’s the latest current affairs quiz… IB Business & Management, 2011-02-23T16:38:01+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/current-affairs-quiz-first-in-the-year-of-the-rabbit http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/current-affairs-quiz-first-in-the-year-of-the-rabbit#When:16:38:00Z We’re back from the Chinese New Year holidays, so here’s the latest current affairs quiz… 2011-02-23T16:38:00+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/caq-19 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/caq-19#When:14:03:00Z China and India have been in the news again for all sorts of reasons… do you know why?  And which American bank has reported more losses, this time amounting to USD1.2bn (£769m)?  Take this week’s current affairs quiz to find out… IB Business & Management, 2011-01-26T14:03:00+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/reach-out-case-study-bbc-four-documentary http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/reach-out-case-study-bbc-four-documentary#When:13:42:01Z In preparing for the P1 pre-seen case study, I watched a brilliant 45-minutes BBC Four video with my students in class called “My Family and Autism”... IB Business & Management, 2011-01-25T13:42:01+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/economic-freedom-index1 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/economic-freedom-index1#When:11:37:00Z Which country has topped this year’s Economic Freedom Index, claiming the crown to the world’s freest economy?  And which country came in bottom place?  Read on to find out… IB Economics, 2011-01-20T11:37:00+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/caq-18 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/caq-18#When:17:29:00Z Which US car maker has launched the ‘Volt’ to take on Toyota’s mighty Prius?  Which Wall Street bank - which remained profitble during the financial crisis - has reported an increase in profits of 47%?  And which internet website, with over 400 million hits each month, has just celebrated its 10th anniversary?  Take this week’s current affairs quiz to find out… IB Business & Management, 2011-01-18T17:29:00+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/54-quality-starter-videos http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/54-quality-starter-videos#When:17:05:00Z Used these two footy video clips as (light entertainment) starters for 5.4 Quality… IB Business & Management, 2011-01-18T17:05:00+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/caq-17 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/caq-17#When:00:39:00Z Which Chinese internet company has more customers than Facebook?  And what is the most popular overseas destination for French Bordeaux wine?  Having already launched the LePhone, Lenovo is about to launch a new gadget to take on the iPad – but what is it called?  Take this week’s CAQ to find out… IB Business & Management, 2011-01-15T00:39:00+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/23-communication http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/23-communication#When:15:14:01Z Here’s an interesting article that can be used when teaching 2.3 Communication… IB Business & Management, 2011-01-11T15:14:01+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/model-dependent-realism http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/model-dependent-realism#When:20:34:00Z Model Dependent Realism is discussed by Stephen Hawking in ‘The Grand Design’. Model Dependent Realism is the notion that there is no one version of reality. Reality is not linear or one dimensional. It cannot be known or understood to be such. Theory of Knowledge, 2011-01-06T20:34:00+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/current-affairs-quiz-16-first-one-of-2011 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/current-affairs-quiz-16-first-one-of-2011#When:17:34:00Z Forget the traditional textbook example of product life cycles – which game caused a total storm in 2010 with sales of $360m (£227,848,101) on its first day of release?  And who is the most successful female television entrepreneur of all time with her very own 24/7 cable network?  Take this week’s CAQ to find out… IB Business & Management, 2011-01-05T17:34:00+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/bm-paper-1-reach-out http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/bm-paper-1-reach-out#When:14:56:00Z Useful videos from BBC Four and YouTube for the Reach Out case study (autism)... IB Business & Management, 2011-01-03T14:56:00+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/teaching-opportunities-at-sha-tin-college http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/teaching-opportunities-at-sha-tin-college#When:14:38:00Z Interested in teaching in the Humanities Faculty at an excellent international school in Hong Kong?  We have two vacancies for Business Education from August 2011.  There is also a post of responsibility in the Faculty for a Coordinator of Theory of Knowledge and IPSE.  Read on for more details… IB Economics, IB Business & Management, 2011-01-03T14:38:00+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/the-power-of-network-analysis http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/the-power-of-network-analysis#When:10:25:00Z Right from companies wanting to improve sales and productivity, financial firms wishing to uncover fraud, police departments being able to predict crimes, to governments wanting to combat counterterrorism, NETWORK ANALYSIS is playing an increasingly useful role these days.  All this is made possible by untangling the social web and analysing social connections.  A multi-billion dollar endeavour, “Network Analysis” is now used to accurately map the spread of democracy and national security.  Read more here….. 2010-11-23T10:25:00+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/for-profit-organisations-versus-non-profit-organisations-who-is-efficient http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/for-profit-organisations-versus-non-profit-organisations-who-is-efficient#When:01:06:00Z Non-profits are usually deemed to be run inefficiently by management experts and consultants.  Interestingly, this article looks at how ‘for-profit’ organizations must emulate and learn from ‘non-profit’ organizations.  Right from hiring and motivating employees to marketing.  Also the term ‘not-for-profit’ is deemed to sound better than the term ‘non-profit’.  I usually find supervising my students’ projects involving charities and non-profit organizations challenging, this article is indeed an eye-opener.  Read the article here. 2010-10-05T01:06:00+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/the-australian-retail-industry-post-gfc http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/the-australian-retail-industry-post-gfc#When:14:29:00Z The two Australian supermarket chains Coles and Woolworths pursue almost identical marketing strategies. Their fresh food campaigns, price-wars and other marketing mix elements are so similar, that it is almost impossible to remember who had started it the first place.  Coles and Woolworths have reported robust growth post-GFC, mainly because consumers have become more frugal and in order to feed their growing demand for value, are prepared to shop across multiple banners and channels, are heavily reliant on price discounting and promotions. In their latest attempt, the two chains are looking at hormone-free beef and barn laid eggs as part of their product differentiation strategies, thus adding value to the consumer.  Read the article here. 2010-09-21T14:29:00+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/current-affairs-quiz-5 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/current-affairs-quiz-5#When:13:31:00Z Which oil-rich country has its National Day on Thursday?  Which computer game raked in £135 million on its debut?  And which metal has hit yet another all-time high on the commodities market?  Take this week’s CAQ to find out… IB Business & Management, 2010-09-21T13:31:00+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/43-branding-and-tok http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/43-branding-and-tok#When:10:39:00Z Here’s a great online quiz that you can use with students to check their sense perception of some well known brands… IB Business & Management, 2010-09-12T10:39:00+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/sweden-and-singapore-overtake-us-in-competitiveness-rankings http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/sweden-and-singapore-overtake-us-in-competitiveness-rankings#When:08:17:00Z Sweden and Singapore have overtaken the United States in the latest rankings on international competitiveness published by the World Economic Forum. This BBC news interview gives the WEF’s senior economist an opportunity to outline some of the reasons. IB Economics, Development Economics, Macroeconomic Arguments, 2010-09-10T08:17:00+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/prezi http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/prezi#When:14:58:00Z During the one of the inevitable INSET sessions that marks that start of every term one of the external presenters made use of Prezi for his session.The software really caught my eye and I very much hope to use this web based presentation creator in my teaching over the coming weeks. I will upload topic based presentations once completed. The ‘Thoughts on using Prezi as a teaching tool’ is a great starting point as well as highlighting its capabilities. IB Economics, 2010-09-09T14:58:00+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/current-affairs-quiz-2 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/current-affairs-quiz-2#When:15:23:00Z So how much does the world’s most expensive dessert cost?!  What is the latest unemployment rate in the world’s largest economy?  Why is Ferrari in the news, for the wrong reasons?  Take this week’s current affairs quiz to find out… IB Business & Management, 2010-09-08T15:23:00+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/development-in-ethiopia http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/development-in-ethiopia#When:08:45:01Z A great TED talk here on development economics in Ethiopia: Economist Eleni Gabre-Madhin outlines her ambitious vision to found the first commodities market in Ethiopia. Her plan would create wealth, minimize risk for farmers and turn the world’s largest recipient of food aid into a regional food basket. IB Economics, Development Economics, Macroeconomic Arguments, 2010-09-06T08:45:01+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/current-affairs-quiz-12 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/current-affairs-quiz-12#When:15:38:01Z Welcome to a new academic year and a new set of current affairs quizzes for Business and Economics students… IB Business & Management, 2010-08-31T15:38:01+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/how-do-companies-react-to-and-manage-crises http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/how-do-companies-react-to-and-manage-crises#When:02:27:00Z In the following analysis, I have identified five multi national companies to show how they managed crisis and dealt with negative publicity. The companies are Mattel, PepsiCo, JetBlue, The Coca Cola Company and Johnson & Johnson. In the following analysis, I have identified five multi national companies to show how they managed crisis and dealt with negative publicity.  The companies are Mattel, PepsiCo, JetBlue, The Coca Cola Company and Johnson & Johnson.  Click here to download the article. IB Economics, Business Economics, IB Business & Management, 2010-08-13T02:27:00+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/pressure-for-higher-minimum-wages-in-bangladesh http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/pressure-for-higher-minimum-wages-in-bangladesh#When:18:11:00Z This BBC news video looks at demands for better pay among the three million or more workers (the majority of whom are women) who work in garment factories in Bangladesh. The country has over 4,000 textile factories and has become one of the world’s biggest exporters of clothing. But for many the jobs available offer long hours and very low pay of around $25 dollars a week - the trade unions are lobbying for average wages three times this figure. Will it threaten the competitive advantage of Bangladeshi producers looking to hold onto contracts from many western buyers? The video is a good resource to use when teaching aspects of labour markets and globalisation in developing countries IB Economics, Development Economics, International Issues, 2010-07-28T18:11:00+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/http-wwweconomistcom-node-16163228story-id16163228 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/http-wwweconomistcom-node-16163228story-id16163228#When:02:31:00Z During an economic downturn, employees want job security and companies want to stay afloat. Companies are faced with absenteeism, de-motivated workforce, and increased low-level corporate crimes due to severe cost-cutting measures adopted by them like unpaid overtime, shrinking perks, and frozen pay besides others. Worse, some employees are leaving or considering looking for new jobs although the job market is not showing signs of a takeoff. The solution: A win-win situation for both employees and companies, as they combat the economic crisis. In this article, one can notice motivational methods of Herzberg in action.  Motivational methods such as job empowerment, payment by results, flexible working hours, giving more controls to employees, and consulting workers are a few that have been implemented currently by some companies to stay afloat during the economic crisis. Read the article here...... 2010-07-22T02:31:00+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/easyjet-needs-a-new-namespossibly http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/easyjet-needs-a-new-namespossibly#When:19:34:00Z Sir Stelios has told the company that it must improve its performance within 90 days or it will lose the name. Read the article here Enteries for a new name to be forwarded to me as soon as possible. I will compile a list a publish. r.dolan@pgs.org.uk IB Business & Management, Marketing, 2010-07-21T19:34:00+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/us-trade-deficit-widens-to-423-billion-in-may http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/us-trade-deficit-widens-to-423-billion-in-may#When:22:21:00Z The U.S. trade deficit widened in May to the highest level in 18 months as a rebounding economy pushed up demand for imports of foreign-made cars, computers and clothing. The Commerce Department says the trade deficit increased 4.8 percent to $42.3 billion, the largest imbalance since November 2008. American exports of goods and services rose 2.4 percent but this increase was outpaced by a 2.9 percent rise in imports. American manufacturing has been a standout performer so far in this recovery, benefiting from a global economic recovery. But the concern is that export sales will be hurt by the European debt crisis, which has dampened growth prospects in Europe. IB Economics, International Issues, 2010-07-13T22:21:00+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/economics-podcast-resources http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/economics-podcast-resources#When:20:26:00Z I found a website that has pages of podcasts that could be useful for guided pupil learning over the holiday period or colleagues may want to download and listen to them on the beach! Click here to be directed to the website. IB Economics, 2010-07-08T20:26:00+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/current-affairs-quiz-31 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/current-affairs-quiz-31#When:15:17:00Z Which country has overtaken Saudi Arabia to become the world’s leading oil producer?  Which Chinese bank has won government approval for its world record breaking flotation worth at least USD22bn?  And which company makes gadgets for the likes of Dell, Sony and Apple?  Take this week’s CAQ to find out… IB Business & Management, 2010-06-20T15:17:00+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/ethiopia-market-coffee http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/ethiopia-market-coffee#When:16:59:01Z Coffee is a lifeline for twelve million farmers in Ethopia who are vulnerable to volatile world prices and the monopsony power of the major coffee roasting businesses. But this heart-warming report from Jonathan Dimbleby finds that a new electronic trading system is providing a superb market place for the setting of prices - connected instantaneously to the world commodities market. Prices agreed on the Ethiopian trading floor are transmitted round the world and the farmer is guaranteed payment within 24 hours. Since the exchange was launched over $400m has been traded without a single dollar of default. Farmers are getting the price that is agreed on the open-outcry market platform. Technology as a support to the problems of real people - outstanding. IB Economics, Development Economics, Resources and Markets, 2010-06-06T16:59:01+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/life-in-north-korea-a-remarkable-bbc-report http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/life-in-north-korea-a-remarkable-bbc-report#When:11:06:01Z Sue Lloyd-Roberts has produced some remarkable reports for television over the years. Few can be as impressive as the ones available on BBC Our World and BBC Newsnight tracking her time in North Korea. She tries to gain an insight into the daily existence of people in North Korea and, despite the constant presence of government minders and security officials, she discovers private markets which for many can be the difference between a meagre life and starvation. The North Korean authorities refuse to acknowledge the existence of these markets but they are the inevitable result of the complete failure of the state planning system. She meets some North Korean defectors who are still coming to terms with the ultimate culture shock. These video reports are remarkable and will make ideal teaching resources when discussing economic systems, living standards and markets. Here are some links to Sue Lloyd-Roberts’ reports Glimpses of real North Korean life behind the facade Sampling North Korea’s version of the internet N Korean defectors on the ultimate culture shock IB Economics, Development Economics, International Issues, 2010-06-06T11:06:01+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/usa-update http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/usa-update#When:20:34:00Z The pace and resilience of the US economic recovery has been called into question with the release of weaker than expected economic figures. There has been an increase in unemployment benefit claims for the first time in five weeks. Maybe consumer confidence is taking a battering again in the USA or is this just a blip? Keep in mind that the labour market for all economies is a closely watched macroeconomic indicator. Poor figures on unemployment and new jobs created is a sign that the recovery in demand remains fragile. Or perhaps that the USA may be experiencing a jobless recovery - with businesses reluctant to take on extra workers for the moment. According to the Daily Telegraph (UK) “In the US there was a surprise 25,000 increase in jobless claims to 471,000 in the week ending May 15. The deterioration in the employment picture, coming hard on the heels of Wednesday’s drop in inflation, underlined worries that the US is exposed to a possible global double-dip recession” Read the article here IB Economics, Macroeconomic Arguments, 2010-05-20T20:34:00+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/fiscal-policies-used-to-stabilize-the-australian-economy http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/fiscal-policies-used-to-stabilize-the-australian-economy#When:05:46:00Z This anlaysis shows how the Australian government has used fiscal policies to smooth out economic fluctuations and reduce its impact on consumers.  Stabilizing_the_Australian_economy_through_fiscal_policies.doc IB Economics, 2010-05-13T05:46:00+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/high-street-dreams http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/high-street-dreams#When:09:45:01Z A new series begins on BBC1 tonight that will no doubt provide some excellent material for Business Management students. IB Economics, Business Economics, IB Business & Management, External Environment, Marketing, Operations Management, 2010-05-10T09:45:01+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/radio-4-tonight http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/radio-4-tonight#When:09:34:00Z There are two excellent programs on BBC Radio 4 this evening that are likely to be full of development and macro economics. IB Economics, Development Economics, Macroeconomic Arguments, 2010-05-10T09:34:00+00:00 http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/unit-42-market-segmentation-and-targeting-video-clip http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/ib-diploma/comments/unit-42-market-segmentation-and-targeting-video-clip#When:14:30:00Z Here’s an interesting 4-minute BBC video clip that can be used for teaching market segmentation and targeting (Unit 4.2). IB Business & Management, 2010-05-09T14:30:00+00:00