Final answer:
The classification of operating segments is consistent between international standards and U.S. GAAP. They differ in the recognition of operating segments, measurement of profit or loss, and disclosure requirements but not in how segments are classified.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student's question pertains to the differences between international standards and U.S. GAAP regarding operating segments. When it comes to the specifics of each, international standards under IFRS (International Financial Reporting Standards) and U.S. GAAP (Generally Accepted Accounting Principles) do indeed have different requirements. However, one element that is not a difference between the two sets of standards with respect to operating segments is the classification of operating segments. Both IFRS and U.S. GAAP require that an operating segment is a component of an enterprise: (1) that engages in business activities from which it may earn revenues and incur expenses, (2) whose operating results are regularly reviewed by the enterprise's chief operating decision-maker, and (3) for which discrete financial information is available.
Therefore, the classification of operating segments is consistent between IFRS and U.S. GAAP. Differences may lie in recognition criteria, measurement of profit or loss, and specific disclosure requirements. For example, IFRS uses a 'management approach' for recognizing operating segments, where segments are identified based on internal reports that are regularly reviewed by the chief operating decision maker, while U.S. GAAP is slightly more prescriptive in determining reportable segments based on quantitative thresholds.