Explain how global interaction may be measured.

Examine the effects of the development of communications upon international interactions.

Likely responses may refer to a named globalization index such as the AT Kearney or the KOF index. Any index chosen should be explained in some detail. For example, if the Kearney index is chosen its four key components should be named:

• economic integration
• personal contact
• technological connectivity
• political engagement.

The response should give some indication of how each of these is measured and is likely to provide an example. For instance, within the Kearney index, personal contact includes remittances/travel/telephone.

Responses should suggest the units for one or more parts of the index, for example, telephone – minutes of international traffic per capita.

Most indices of interactions are compound indices based on several components. Weighting factors are applied, a total score is calculated and countries may then be ranked.

To access band D and above, responses should include:

• a recognized index with its components
• an explanation for the ranking of countries
• named examples.

Other approaches may be equally valid and should be assessed on their merits.

Marks should be allocated according to the markbands.

The response should recognize a variety of kinds of communications (transport, telecommunications and the internet) and interactions (socio-cultural, economic and political). For example, the increasing capacity and speed of transport systems has facilitated the international transfer of goods through trade. It has also stimulated cultural integration through labour transfers and tourism. ICT has increased all aspects of international interaction, in particular financial transfers and business transactions. ICT has also allowed easier international exchange of ideas and political negotiation.

Answers attaining band D and above must focus upon international interaction, not just outcomes. Answers attaining band E must also include references to transport as well as ICT. Named examples are also expected at these levels.

Other approaches may be equally valid and should be assessed on their merits.

Marks should be allocated according to the markbands.