Overview

Entrepreneurs and small firms are the lifeblood of an economy, and make an increasing contribution to innovation, wealth creation and employment. However, there is a growing trend for corporate social responsibility to embrace environmental concerns and show conformity to a plethora of environmental standards. This module will provide a detailed insight into the concepts of entrepreneurship and the role of small firms within the economy; and how to engage with the environmental and sustainability agendas. This module encourages participants to develop a critical awareness of the nature and role of entrepreneurship and the environment in the economy and society. Candidates will learn about the process involved in new venture creation and be required to develop a sustainable business plan.

Key themes include: 1. Exploring the nature of the entrepreneur, in a historical, economic and environmental context 2. An understanding of the development and complexities of other forms of businesses such as franchises, family businesses and entrepreneurship 3. Understand the purpose of a sustainable business plan 4. Learning to complete a business plan to a sufficient depth and standard and to tailor the business plan to differing reader interests

Assessment Strategy

-threshold -No major omissions or inaccuracies in the deployment of information/skills.Some grasp of theoretical/conceptual/practical elements.Integration of theory/practice/information present intermittently in pursuit of the assessed work's objectives.

-good -Much of the relevant information and skills mostly accurately deployed.Adequate grasp of theoretical/conceptual/practical elements.Fair integration of theory/practice/information in the pursuit of the assessed work's objectives.Some evidence of the use of creative and reflective skills.

-excellent -An outstanding performance, exceptionally able. The relevant information accurately deployed. Excellent grasp of theoretical/conceptual/practice elements. Good integration of theory/practice/information in pursuit of the assessed work's objectives. Strong evidence of the use of creative and reflective skills.