The aim of this module is to provide a solid conceptual and analytical understanding of small business and entrepreneurship. Although no prior understanding is assumed, lectures and small group teaching will allow students to discuss and critically evaluate key theories and understanding of small business and entrepreneurial firms. The module focusses on the entrepreneurial development of new firms. Key questions analysed are:
Why do risk and uncertainty matter so much for those setting up a new business?
What is entrepreneurship?
What is it like to work in a small business?
Are small businesses more innovative?
What is a new business?
What role does people’s social networks help in setting up a new business?
Do you have to be a special person to be an entrepreneur?
Why do business close?
In the second semester, the focus shifts to analytically developing understandings of business growth and wider issues in entrepreneurship:
What do we mean by business growth?
Are some people more suited to growing a fast growth business?
What types of businesses grow?
Is there a right strategy for growing a business?
What role do the banks play in supporting business growth?
What role do venture capitalists and business angels play in supporting business growth?
What can governments do to support growing businesses?
How influential are government actions?
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the module students should be able to:
Demonstrate a critical theoretical understanding of the differences between small and large businesses in terms of uncertainty, employment, innovation;
Identify and evaluate the different conceptual approaches and theoretical models that underlie entrepreneurial processes and outcomes;
Synthesise, critically evaluate and analyse empirical data and key readings;
Demonstrate advanced teamwork skills through developing the group presentation;
Integrate and critically evaluate evidence and identify its strategic implications for small business and entrepreneurship practice.
