FN315 Comparative international accounting

Synopsis of Module

This module is designed to introduce students to the subject area of international accounting by focussing on comparative accounting. Students will be able to develop their prior knowledge of accounting in the UK (or other home country) context.

The module will be supported by the use of virtual learning environments such as Blackboard.

Formal delivery is through a mixture of lecture and seminar activities making use of virtual learning environments.

Assessment is by a two - hour closed book examination.

Aims of Module

This module aims to:

1.	Enable students to view their prior learning in the subject of accounting in a wider international context.

2.	Develop students' knowledge base so that existing accounting knowledge is complemented by knowledge of other countries' accounting approaches.

3.	Enable students to compare and contrast different accounting systems world - wide and to study progress towards harmonisation, exploring the problems involved.

Learning Outcomes

At the end of this module the student will be able to:

1.	Critically comment on different accounting approaches that are adopted in different countries.

2.	Assess and appraise the reasons for different accounting techniques, and disclosure practices

3.	Assess the pressures for international harmonisation and critically comment on the ways in which the accounting profession world- wide and governmental organisations are approaching the problem.

Outline Syllabus

Environmental Influences on Accounting

Why is accounting different in different countries? What are the causes? What is the impact on culture?

International Patterns of Accounting Development

Classification models of accounting. Accounting clusters. Critique of the various models - which is best?

International Pressures for Change

The importance of raising finance and development of stock exchanges

Disclosure Issues in Accounting

E.g. Reporting of Risk, Corporate Governance

International Accounting Harmonisation

Harmonisation and standardisation - which is realistic? The pros and cons of harmonisation.

The various bodies involved, including IASB, IFAC, UN, EU and regional bodies.

Comparative International Accounting Systems and Practices

Accounting in other countries

Comparative International Analysis

Foreign Currency Translation

Comparing different financial statements. Reconciliation's and US GAAP.

Recent Developments

The Future?

Pressure to harmonise US GAAP vs. IAS GAAP.

Environmental and social reporting.

Summative assessment

Assessment A: Examination - (Closed Book)

The weighting of this assessment is 100%