75696 - Economics of Networks and Local Systems

Learning outcomes

The aim of the course is to analyze, both in a theoretical and empirical perspective, the role of networks for firms, organizations and individuals at the local level, with a specific reference to tourism firm and systems. At the end of the course, the student i) understands the opportunities and constraints that networks generate for firms; ii) understands the channels through which networks spur or limit growth at the local level; iii) is able to evaluate the policies that support the formation and the functioning of networks.

Course contents

Learning Module 1 (prof. Laura Vici)
1. The spatial dimension in business and individual decision process
2. Economies of agglomeration and localization decisions.
3. Industrial districts, tourism districts and the territory
4. Proximity networks: geographical, relational, institutional and cognitive proximity.
5. Neo-Schumpeterian theories
6. The concept of territorial capital
7. Applications to the tourism sector
8. Diffusion of technologies. Applications to the tourism sector
Learning Module 2 (prof. Lorenzo Masiero)
1.Transport and Tourism
2.The transport demand
3.Location of productive and residential activities
4. Transport networks
5.Tourist flows and accessibility of tourists
6. Local transport and tourism in Romagna
7. Regional development theory
8. Regional demand and growth
9. Tourism and development strategy
10. Tourism and export-led growth

Readings/Bibliography

Roberta Capello (2015) "Economia regionale", Il Mulino.

Further compulsory or optional readings will be communicated at the beginning of the course.

Teaching methods

Frontal lectures

Assessment methods

The assessment method is given by a written exam. The written exam aims at verifying the understanding of the theories exposed in class and their application to tourism.

The exam lasts 60 minutes and contains 4 questions (2 questions for the first module and 2 questions for the second module).

The grade is graduated as follows:

<18 failed
18-23 sufficient
24-27 good
28-30 very good
30 e lode excellent

Teaching tools

Beamer.

Office hours

See the website of Laura Vici

See the website of Lorenzo Masiero