STRATEGIES BEYOND PROFIT

The course explores the theoretical foundations and current research frontiers in strategic management. It aims to develop students' critical thinking, research skills, and ability to contribute original knowledge to the strategic management field. The course will delve into key theoretical perspectives, emerging research areas, and methodological challenges in the field. Students will especially engage with contemporary research, fostering a deep understanding of the field's future directions.
Note: This syllabus is a sample and may be adjusted based on the specific interests and needs of the students and the instructor emerging during the course

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
• Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of most relevant theories and concepts in strategic management.
• Critically evaluate and synthesize existing research in various domains of strategic management.
• Identify and analyze emerging research trends and opportunities in the field.
• Develop and articulate original research questions and theoretical frameworks.
• Apply advanced research methodologies to address strategic management issues.
• Effectively communicate complex ideas and research findings through written and oral presentations.
• Develop skills in peer review and constructive critique.

no previous knowledge of strategic management is required

- Introduction and Foundations of Strategic Management
• Overview of the field, its evolution, and key research paradigms.
• Discussion of seminal works and foundational theories.
• Resource-based view, dynamic capabilities, and sources of competitive advantage.
• Organizational learning theories, knowledge creation, and absorptive capacity.
- Strategic Problem Formulation
• Problem Solving and Problem Formulation
• How to deal with Strategic Problems
Innovation and Technology Strategy
• Exploration of technological innovation and disruptive innovation.
• Open Innovation and Platform Innovation.
- Digital Strategy and AI
• Exploration of the digitalization processes, opportunities and challenges.
• AI and Strategy
- Strategic Partnerships
• Analysis of interorganizational relationships.
• Discussion of network theory and social capital.
- Strategy and Impact
• The increasing relevance of social impact within strategic management.
• Corporate social responsibility, sustainability, hybrid organizations.

A selection of seminal articles and contemporary research papers from top-tier journals (e.g., Strategic Management Journal, Academy of Management Journal, Organization Science).

• Evaluation will be based on the quality of student participation, presentations, research proposal, and peer reviews.
• Emphasis will be placed on critical thinking, analytical rigor, and originality of ideas.
Academic Integrity:
• Students are expected to adhere to the highest standards of academic integrity.
• Plagiarism, unallowed use of AI, and other forms of academic misconduct will not be tolerated.

written

The instructor is responsible for ensuring the authenticity and originality of all examinations and coursework. In cases of suspected academic misconduct, an additional on-site assessment may be required during the exams, which may differ from the standard format.

Regarding the grading scale (method by which grades will be assigned), regardless of attendance mode:
A. Scores in the range of 18-22 will be assigned based on:
- Sufficient knowledge and understanding applied in reference to the course curriculum;
- Limited ability to apply knowledge by forming independent judgments;
- Adequate communication skills, especially concerning the use of specific language related to the strategy and innovation areas;
B. Scores in the range of 23-26 will be assigned based on:
- Fair knowledge and understanding applied about the course curriculum;
- Fair ability to apply knowledge by forming independent judgments;
- Fair communication skills, especially concerning the use of specific language related to the strategy and innovation areas;
C. Scores in the range of 27-30 will be assigned based on:
- Good or excellent knowledge and understanding applied about the course curriculum;
- Good or excellent ability to apply knowledge by forming independent judgments;
- Fully appropriate communication skills, especially concerning the use of specific language related to the strategy and innovation areas;
D. Distinction will be awarded based on excellent knowledge and understanding applied to the curriculum, exceptional judgment, and communication skills

The course will be highly interactive, emphasizing student participation and discussion. Each session will involve in-depth analysis of assigned readings, presentations by students, and critical discussions. Students will be expected to actively contribute to the learning environment.

Academic Integrity
• Students are expected to adhere to the highest standards of academic integrity.
• Plagiarism, unallowed use of AI, and other forms of academic misconduct will not be tolerated.
• Support to students with disabilities is assured by Ca' Foscari. In case, please write an inquiry to disabilita@unive.it.

This subject deals with topics related to the macro-area "Poverty and inequalities" and contributes to the achievement of one or more goals of U. N. Agenda for Sustainable Development