The subject features a mixture of lectures, cases, software-based learning and real world integration with the Taiwan business community of Entrepreneurs and Investors. Interactivity between facilitator(s) and students is high.

The subject focuses intensively and exclusively upon QUICKLY giving participants the skills to evaluate a proposed new venture in a thorough and systematic manner, by thinking and acting like an entrepreneur. The subject emphasizes entrepreneurial practice; but all techniques and skills are based upon the latest developments in entrepreneurship theory and the theoretical basis for procedures is always articulated. The course is taught over 40 hours; this is not a great deal of time. However, a great deal can be achieved by a rigorous combination of focus and structure. We will use idea generation, evaluation and business modeling frameworks permitting you to use many of the skills of analysis and management that you already possess, but to use them in constructive, harmonized entrepreneurial ways.

The subject is self-contained and can be beneficially studied as a ‘one off’ development unit. However, when studied as part of the Master of Global Business (MGB) program, the subject gains from synergy. It is an ideal foundation for other future courses in the MGB program, providing a conceptual framework for integrating theory and a practical regime to guide implementation of the ideas and skills learned in the total program.

The good old-fashioned lecture
So-called ‘chalk and talk’ is often denigrated but it remains a very efficient method of communication. The convener will endeavour to make mini-lecture sessions interesting and well-supported by visual materials, speaking notes, video-streaming, mini-exercises and internet connectivity as well as encouraging the asking of questions as the lecture progresses.

Class participation and dialogue
Wherever possible the convener will encourage and facilitate class discussion and engagement as a means to crystallize key learning points.

The case method
This subject employs the case method. Considerable detail about the cases to be used is provided in the relevant sections below.

The most important single piece of pre-reading and preparation for most class sessions of this subject is your preparation of a detailed analysis of entrepreneurial case studies that will be discussed in an open forum. The requirements for preparing these discussions are given in great detail on the Electronic Learning site outline.

There are approximately 5 substantial cases requiring a substantial time investment. You are expected to read them prior to the commencement of the respective session for discussion.

Some other mini-cases may be ‘sprung’ on participants as ‘surprise packages’ at various stages of the course.

The preparation, delivery and verbal defense of case analyses in open forum provides participants with the ability to apply the principles of new venture articulation and evaluation taught in the subject.