Length: Full Year
Recommended background: Successful completion of Stage 1 Business and Economics
Note: The areas of Business and Economics challenge students to apply sophisticated economic and business thinking to contemporary issues that shape local, national and global communities. Students deepen their understanding through one of two specialised pathways: Business Innovation or Economics. Both pathways emphasise inquiry, critical analysis, ethical decision-making and evidence-based reasoning while preparing students for tertiary study, employment and entrepreneurial opportunities. Students investigate complex real-world challenges through authentic case studies, contemporary research and independent inquiry. They analyse competing perspectives, evaluate evidence and develop innovative solutions to economic and business problems. Learning experiences encourage students to think strategically, communicate persuasively and apply theoretical knowledge to dynamic and evolving contexts. Throughout the course, students strengthen their capabilities in critical and creative thinking, collaboration, communication, research and financial literacy. They develop independence as learners while demonstrating initiative, resilience and reflective practice. Stage 2 Business and Economics equips students with the analytical skills and confidence required to participate effectively as informed citizens, consumers, employees, entrepreneurs and future leaders. Students select the pathway that best aligns with their interests, strengths and future aspirations.
Content:
Stage 2 Business Innovation examines how innovation, entrepreneurship and strategic decision-making enable organisations to create value in rapidly changing environments. Students investigate how businesses identify opportunities, manage uncertainty and respond to economic, technological, environmental and social change.
Through contemporary business contexts, students explore how organisations develop competitive advantage by fostering innovation, implementing effective leadership, managing resources and responding to stakeholder expectations. They critically analyse business models, evaluate strategies for sustainable growth and investigate how emerging technologies, digital transformation and globalisation influence organisational success.
Learning is highly inquiry-driven and centred on authentic business problems. Students undertake independent investigations, analyse contemporary businesses, engage with entrepreneurs and industry examples, and apply design thinking and strategic planning processes to develop innovative business solutions. They evaluate the effectiveness of business decisions using evidence and consider the ethical implications of organisational practices within increasingly complex environments.
Students communicate sophisticated business arguments using contemporary evidence and demonstrate the ability to synthesise information, evaluate alternatives and justify recommendations supported by business theory.
Assessment:
Student performance will be determined according to the subject’s Performance Standards as described in the Subject Outline. Grades A+ to E- will be used for reporting purposes.
School Assessment (70%):
External Assessment (30%):