Results

As a result of the SOM/TAM partnership, SOM was urged to increase their distant learning capacities and transfer the traditional in-classroom courses to web-based format. PIME, Phase I, became the major reason for the following changes in TAM: mission was reviewed and redefined; the entire curriculum was revised, i.e. the academic trimester system was introduced, and the credit hour system was adopted. Partnership also developed the ability for TAM faculty and students to improve and advance English language skills; engaged TAM in the "pre-candidacy phase" of accreditation with the AACSB, and significantly improved its instructional technology infrastructure. In more detail: TAM invested in its IT Infrastructure Development more than $140 000 (with the total annual budget of $ 1,5 million). Recent investments include mainly installment of a new telephone station (50 external numbers), fiber optic, thirty new computers for computer lab and R&D Department, and equipment, which increased Internet speed and capacity for more than 8 times.

Collaboration also promoted the development of analytical and critical thinking skills as TAM faculty together with their students were challenged to understand the Western theory and its adaptation to the Russian market.

School of Management and Togliatti Academy of Management are also enjoying the multiple mutual benefits, such as:

- strengthen cooperation between administration and faculty by introducing TAM faculty and students with Western economy system, and SOM faculty and students with the realities of Russian emerging economy;

- endow the next generation of leaders/managers and decision-makers in the U.S. and in Russia with training, and skills necessary to respond to the ever-changing demands of society;

- develop global vision and internationalize curricula of the respective institutions;

- offer a competitive advantage for graduates from each institution to secure employment;

- acquaint both partners with cross-cultural aspects of two different nations;

- provide an opportunity to initiate communication with business community, which primarily lead to student internships, and practical recommendations about global business environment;

- facilitate entry into the emerging Russian market for American businesses and assist in creating an environment hospitable to foreign investment;

- provide opportunities for research and consulting in the area of International Business, Finance and Emerging Economy.

All the above leads to institution building, faculty cooperation, distant learning strategies expansion, internationalizing curricula for both institutions, establishing cooperation with corporate partners.

In summary, ongoing and anticipated interactions between the two institutions serve as a catalyst for change and improvement.