Course features

This module applies theory to the analysis of various cases of digital entrepreneurship, encouraging students to take a critical approach to examining the role of information technologies in the development of digital entrepreneurial projects.

It is important to emphasise that that the purpose of this module is not to teach ‘how to build a successful start-up'. Rather, it aims foster critical thinking that goes beyond step-by-step guides, enabling students to become entrepreneurial leaders who move beyond traditional frameworks.

Through the examination of specific case studies, students will broaden their understanding of the key issues and trajectories in the development of digital entrepreneurship.

The module also draws on the notion of digital networks and their potential to foster powerful relationships as part of entrepreneurial activities. Students will be encouraged to critically reflect on concepts such as digitally mediated social interaction, social capital, interpersonal trust, and affordance theory, with the aim of using these concepts to devise strategies for building businesses or interventions that harness the affordances of digital platforms.

Learning outcomes

• Develop critical thinking surrounding the role of digital platforms in entrepreneurship.

• Build understanding of the architecture of digital platforms, and their potential for building digital networks to support online businesses.

• Understand and explain the role of digital platforms in the development of new types of economic relationships and business models.

• Learn how digital platforms can be used to mobilise resources

• Understand how platform properties can be leveraged to build meaningful relationships that foster trust and form a reputable online identity

• Understand the relevance of key concepts such as affordances, generativity, crowdsourcing and crowdfunding, building trust online, reputation management, and social entrepreneurship.

• Learn how to devise strategic engagements with online platforms to promote business ideas.

• Apply theoretical knowledge critically and creatively in order to develop entrepreneurial projects

Entry requirements

T​he standard entry requirements comprise:

• A 2:2 honours degree or international equivalent 
• A CV and personal statement outlining reasons for study  
• English language at Band B (IELTS 7.0 overall with a minimum of 6.5 in each skill).

For information on our English language requirements please see our English Language requirements page.

Assessment

You will be assessed via the following:

• Coursework Project (90%)

• Engagement and Participation (10%)

Further information

This module runs over 10 weeks and combines online interactions with your peers and instructors with self-directed learning.

The module materials aim to provide you with a rich and varied online learning experience and include:

• Five live webinars

• Topic-specific interactive lessons

• Readings

• Discussion forums

• A variety of activities designed to encourage student participation, learning, debate and contributions.

Every two weeks, there will be a live webinar session where you will engage with your instructor and fellow students. These sessions may include a range of activities: to discuss the week’s topics, debrief the week’s activities and/or debate on and answer questions posted in the weekly forum. They may also have specific preparation activities and readings.