Overview of the Module
General Aim of the Module
Through creative business models, this course seeks to provide students with a thorough grasp of social entrepreneurship and its function in promoting environmental and societal change. With an emphasis on the triple bottom line—people, planet, and profit—students will learn how to define social entrepreneurship and how it differs from conventional enterprises. Along with recognising various kinds of social enterprises and their functions in the market, they will investigate how social entrepreneurship affects industries like healthcare, education, and environmental conservation, and they will use case studies to create workable answers to society’s problems. Students will also learn how universities use technology and mentorship to help social entrepreneurs grow and function more effectively. Students who complete the course will be prepared to start and spearhead successful social change locally and internationally.
Module Specific Objectives
- Explain the concept of social entrepreneurship, distinguishing it from traditional business models by focusing on its goals for social change and the triple bottom line of people, planet, and profit.
- Classify and describe various forms of social enterprises, including cooperatives, social cooperatives, and hybrid organisations, and their functions within the economy.
- Analyse the role of social entrepreneurship in critical sectors such as healthcare, education, and environmental conservation, and evaluate its effectiveness in addressing specific societal challenges.
- Utilise case studies to develop and propose solutions to real-world social challenges, applying theoretical concepts of social entrepreneurship in practical contexts.
- Explore how universities can support the growth and effectiveness of social enterprises through resources like mentorship, funding strategies, and technological integration.
- Prepare to initiate and lead social change by understanding and applying principles of social entrepreneurship to create economic, social, and environmental benefits at local and global levels.
Brief Instructons on how to Study in this Module
Learning Resources for Curious Minds
Stanford Social Innovation Review (SSIR): A collection of articles, blogs, and case studies on social entrepreneurship, leadership, and nonprofit management. Read more
The Schwab Foundation for Social Entrepreneurship – Case Studies: Offers detailed case studies on social entrepreneurs around the world, showcasing their strategies and impacts. View case studies
What Is Social Entrepreneurship?” – Skoll World Forum 2019: This YouTube video features discussions from the Skoll World Forum at Saïd Business School, offering insights into the definition and impact of social entrepreneurship. Watch on YouTube
Social Entrepreneurship at the Rustandy Center, Chicago Booth: The Rustandy Center for Social Sector Innovation provides various programs and resources to help social startups succeed, integrating social impact with business strategies. More details can be explored on their official site
The Case Centre: Provides a wide selection of case studies on social entrepreneurship that can be used for teaching and research in higher education. Some cases are freely available. Browse the case studies.
