Why are some places more switched onto globalisation

Why are some places more switched onto globalisation than others?

Aim What are switched on and switched off places? Learning Outcomes A* - I will explore and contest the notion of switched on and switched off places; I will evaluate human and physical factors that cause this, using specific detail. A - I will explore and contest the notion of switched on and switched off places; I will evaluate human and physical factors that cause this, using examples to support. B - I will explore the notion of switched on and switched off places; I will explain human and physical factors that cause this, using examples to support. C - I will explore the notion of switched on and switched off places; I will describe human and physical factors that cause this, using examples to support. Key words Switched on/off, least developed country, spending power, physical feature, resource rich, protectionism

5 mins Switched on/ switched off? Switched on places are those nations, regions or cities that are strongly connected to other places through the production and consumption of goods and services. It is global networks creating flows (trade, money, workers, information), being in a network and being as close to a hub as possible, that makes a place switched on. In contrast, places that are poorly connected are said to be relatively switched off. It is being largely excluded from global networks and flows and having little contact with hubs that makes a place switched off.

What do the lights show? What are the wealthiest regions? What are the core areas within more impoverished regions? What are the poorest regions? Only indigenous populations in wilderness locations are completely cut off from the global economy. The poorest regions/ places are not completely cut off But they are more poorly connected to the global network and are said to be “switched-off places” 10 mins The distribution of light shows where both population and wealth is found and were it is not Brightly lit places are those where energy is in use (to light and heat homes, offices and shops or to produce goods). They are the places most connected to the world economy though consumption and production of goods. We call them “switched-on places”

5 mins Where is switched on and off? Hub City Esri GIS. World air traffic mapped Which places are “switched-on” and “switched-off”? Which places are “switched-off” from Which places are “switched-on” to the network? on” and “switched-off”? network? Where is the divide? ” are “switched. Identify the“digital hubs and flows of trade. Which places the

5 mins Switched on/ switched off? Think-pair-share What makes a place more switched on than another place? What features or attributes should a switched on place have?

Why do some regions remain relatively switched off… 10 mins

15 mins Where in the world is switched off and why? Task: Create a case study for Gambia using the information sheet provided.

Why are large parts of Africa bypassed by globalisation? A stereotypical western business view Corruption Politically unstable Weak market Corruption pervades many African societies. Politicians and police can abuse authority by being corrupt. This increases risk of losses and makes it time consuming and frustrating for TNCs to operate. Many countries have been marred by civil wars and insurrection. A supportive government can suddenly be replaced by a hostile one. This can increase risk of losses for TNCs. Although some TNCs do operate in Africa e. g. flower exports from Kenya, the wages are not high enough to kick start the multiplier effect. This results in a weak market – TNCs cannot sell their goods. Little government support Due to a lack of volume of business it is harder for TNCs to gain incentives e. g. planning permission for the best sites, tax incentives etc. Debt Many Sub-Saharan countries are weighed down by enormous debts taken on to fund infrastructure projects in the 1970 s. They could not repay these loans so the IMF has made the loans more affordable (Structural Adjustment Packages). In return many LDCs have had to cut their government spending. This has many effects. Negative image Unstable currencies Many LDC African countries suffer from a poor image. The 2010 World Cup in South Africa could improve this. A rapidly changing exchange rate would be financial suicide for TNCs. This brings a high risk of losses. High Risk & Low Returns Unskilled labour Although labour is cheap, governments’ debts and reduced spending on education mean that populations are technically unskilled. (Few universities). Crime Kidnappings of foreign workers (and physical threats) are prevalent in many African countries. This is high risk to TNC staff. Poor infrastructure International debts mean African governments have no money to invest in a modern world-class infrastructure. Few regular flights and shipping operators. They cannot compete with China, India and other NICs.

Plenary Exam Practice What term best describes a highly-connected place? q. Suburb q. Megacity q. Shanty town q. Million city q. Global hub Explain how physical factors may have contributed to the growth of ‘switched on’ and ‘switched off places (5) Factor (1) explanation (1) Maximum of 4 with no specific located detail