BMG936 International Entrepreneurship

The aim of the module is to lead students towards an in-depth knowledge and understanding of the international growth and development process of firms from their inception through to maturity as established international firms, with the emphasis on the early stages of international development for new venture and young, often born-global firms. Conventional internationalisation theory is challenged through discussion of rapidly internationalising firms, international new ventures and the born-global phenomenon. The course focuses on key concepts and theories underpinning international entrepreneurship, and how these are applied in practice.  In addition, students are encouraged to draw on a wide range of intellectual resources, theoretical perspectives, and practical applications to illuminate and reflect upon their learning in the context of international entrepreneurship, born globals and international new ventures.

LEARNING OUTCOMES

Learning outcomes are stated explicitly in the Course Document and summarized below. On successful completion of this module students will:

KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING

K1 Demonstrate knowledge of the factors, which influence entrepreneurial attitudes and behaviour in an international context.

K2 Understand the nature of Born Global/International New Venture internationalisation, and the emerging theories/concepts underpinning this  phenomenon

K3 Comment authoritatively on how (international) entrepreneurial behaviour can be used to improve the competitive advantage of small firms.

INTELLECTUAL QUALITIES

I1 Identify, analyse and synthesise materials from primary and secondary sources     that assist in the understanding of International Entrepreneurship.

I2 Construct and defend a reasoned argument in class presentations.

I3 Take a creative approach to studying topics in International Entrepreneurship, including thinking and reflecting around entrepreneurial issues and solving problems

I4 Develop their learning through the cross fertilisation of ideas from their own and others’ experiences (peer to peer learning)

PROFESSIONAL/PRACTICAL SKILLS

P1 Apply knowledge of International Entrepreneurship, Born Globals and International New Ventures processes and practice creatively to problem solving situations.

P2 Recognise and utilise their own and others contributions in-group processes.

P3 Participate in academic, ethical and value discussions that develop from International Entrepreneurship topics studied

P4 Complete presentation and written assignments in a way that demonstrates systematic information gathering, accuracy, critical reflection on arguments  Presented, as well as detailed Harvard referencing in written assignments.

Perform effectively in a group environment

TRANSFERABLE SKILLS

T1 Demonstrate an ability to research, synthesize and evaluate complex (international) issues systematically and creatively.

T2 Demonstrate proficiency in written and oral communication

T3 Demonstrate an ability to take responsibility for the development of their knowledge of International Entrepreneurship, and skill-sets with regard to international entrepreneurship.

T4 Demonstrate an ability to learn through critical reflection on International Entrepreneurship, theory, practice and future scenarios

Demonstrate an ability to learn and enhance personal effectiveness, and self-confidence through feedback from both tutors and peers.

LEARNING AND TEACHING METHODS

Concepts and theories will be presented through a combination of lecture and tutorial activities, as well as practical exercises, with directed readings and discussions, multimedia resources, guest lecture sessions and case studies/future scenarios.  There is also an element of peer-to-peer learning, as well as students in assignment two co creating content and sharing with peers.

In tutorial time, topics will be explored and developed through a mix of case studies/future scenarios, student-led presentations and/or discussions. In order to assist students adopt a global outlook, case studies will be drawn from varying international contexts, and each week will have a different country focus slot, as part of the tutorial series.

Groups of 4-5 students will be formed and allocated an International Entrepreneurship topic– these groups will be asked to present on this topic as part of the tutorials (and also as part of the assessment strategy), and asked to lead the discussion for that particular tutorial.