The course will cover all of the basic principles pertinent to the operation of a retail establishment. An additional emphasis will be on the students learning how retailers can utilize the Internet for the benefit of their businesses. As such, students will learn how to prepare a multi-channel retailing strategy, including store strategy, print materials, and basic web pages. These will be prepared for a hypothetical business.

In addition, students will be exposed to traditional retail topics, such as location theory, merchandising, the 4Ps as they pertain to retailing, the effects of socio-cultural trends on retailing, evolving retail patterns, and more.

Specific objectives for the course:

1. Students will be able to demonstrate mastery of content, as measured on three exams.
2. Students will illustrate their understanding of how to develop a multi-channel retailing strategy for a hypothetical business.

Required Texts:

Retailing Management, 5ed, by Levy and Weitz.

Teaching Philosophy:

My teaching style is very informal. I have found that the best learning occurs in a classroom free from the encumbrances of rigid and formal guidelines. Although final authority and accountability lay with your professor, do not be surprised when class sessions evolve into a dialog between the professor and students. We can learn something from every individual in the class, be it from my lectures, or your work, travel, or personal experiences. Be prepared to give as much as you will receive.

Exams:

There will be three exams given during the semester. They are NOT cumulative. These exams will consist of multiple-choice questions and numerical computations. The exact composition of each exam will be announced at least one class prior to the exam date. Rescheduling of missed exams will be at the discretion of your professor.

Group Project:

You will form your own groups of 4-5 individuals. More information about the project is available by clicking the link above.

Other:

I require all students to have an e-mail account, either at work or through an independent ISP. You must provide your professor with your e-mail address during the first class session.

Disabilities:

West Texas A&M University seeks to provide reasonable accommodations for all qualified persons with disabilities. This University will adhere to all applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and guidelines with respect to providing reasonable accommodations as required to afford equal educational opportunity. It is the student's responsibility to register with Disability Support Services and to contact the faculty member in a timely fashion to arrange for suitable accommodations.