Introductory description

This gateway module introduces entrepreneurship as a method and a way of thinking and acting to create value in uncertain and dynamic environments. Drawing on ideas from across business, innovation, strategy, creativity, and the social sciences, the module explores how entrepreneurial ideas are generated, developed, and tested in practice. Students engage with key entrepreneurial concepts such as effectuation, opportunity recognition, and business modelling, while developing a venture idea (real or hypothetical) through practical activities, reflection, and experimentation. As a WBS gateway module, it provides a shared foundation for students progressing in and or into different degree pathways, supporting the development of transferable skills including problem-solving, communication, teamwork, and adaptability. The module also encourages reflection on personal interests, strengths, and future academic or career directions within and beyond WBS.

This is an elective module designed specifically for non-WBS students. To find detailed availability and to apply for this module, log in to my.wbs.ac.uk using your normal IT login details and apply via the my.wbs module application system. Once you’ve secured a place on my.wbs you should apply via your home department’s usual process, which usually takes place via eVision.

Note that you do not require the module leader’s permission to study a WBS module, so please do not contact them to request it.

Module web page

Module aims

Outline syllabus

This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.

Outline syllabus

• Entrepreneurship as a method
• Fostering networks
• Opportunity recognition
• Effectuation in practice
• Navigating uncertainty
• Creativity and innovation
• Venture capabilities
• Business modeling (Lean Canvas)
• Pitching
• Unpacking your assessment

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students should be able to:

• Describe entrepreneurship as both a method and a mindset for creating value in uncertain and changing environments.
• Explain key entrepreneurial concepts and frameworks, including effectuation, opportunity recognition and basic business modelling.
• Outline how entrepreneurial ideas are developed and tested, including the roles of creativity, experimentation, networks, and limited resources.
• Identify and examine entrepreneurial problems and opportunities using introductory concepts and examples.
• Demonstrate creative and analytical thinking in generating and refining ideas in response to uncertainty.
• Reflect on learning and decision-making, showing awareness of how ideas and understanding.

Indicative reading list

Reading lists can be found in Talis

Interdisciplinary

This module is designed for non-WBS students interested in studying and learning about entrepreneurship. Drawing on perspectives from business, innovation, strategy, creativity, and the social sciences, this module presents entrepreneurship as a way of thinking and acting applicable across disciplines and career pathways.

Subject specific skills

• Apply basic entrepreneurial tools and frameworks (e.g. Lean Canvas, ideation techniques) to develop and explore a simple venture idea.

• Communicate a venture idea clearly using appropriate entrepreneurial formats, such as short written explanations, visual models, and introductory pitch presentations.

• Engage in reflective entrepreneurial practice, using structured reflection to review learning, feedback, and early venture development.

Transferable skills

• Communicate effectively in written, visual, and oral formats appropriate to academic and entrepreneurial contexts.

• Work constructively with others, contributing to discussions, peer activities, and collaborative learning tasks.

• Manage personal learning and development, demonstrating initiative, adaptability, and reflective awareness as a first-year undergraduate.