From Ideation to Feasible BusinessLaajuus (5 cr)

Learning objectives

Upon completion of the course, the student is able to

• apply practical knowledge of issues related to establishing a business in Finland
• understand characteristics of an entrepreneur, as well as to make him to consider entrepreneurship as a potential career option
• understand the effectiveness and key figures of the hotel, restaurant and tourism industry and be able to put them into practical use
• know hospitality industry related legislation and its practical implementation
• identify potential customers and segments, understand and anticipate customer expectations and needs

Contents

• The characteristics of an entrepreneur and intrapreneur
• Analysis of Finnish business environment, emphasis on hospitality entrepreneurship
• Introduction to forms of business in Finland
• Process of founding a business
• Making a business plan/business model
• Permits/legal issues/investment
• Pitching own business idea
• Business model canvas and its components

Starting level and linkage with other courses

No previous studies needed and no binding connections to other courses.

Implementation methods, demonstration and Work&Study

Lectures, interactive class discussions, exercises, project work, self-directed learning, presentations and field research. In the integrated assignment, student groups will make a business plan that would be suitable for the business environment, markets and business operations. It is highly recommended that the student actively uses the knowledge gained from different courses in the assignments.

a) Classroom learning
b) Distant learning

Self and peer assessment.

Assessing one’s own learning is a compulsory part of the course.

Assessment criteria - grade 1

When the implementation type of the course is CONTACT, ONLINE or BLENDED it is required that the student is present during those teaching hours that are marked in the study schedule. If you are absent more than 25 %, your grade will be lowered by one. If you are absent more than 50 %, the course is failed.

Grade 1
The student’s understanding of entrepreneurship key concepts is limited. Student’s level of skill in developing and in establishing a business, is below average. Her’s/his’ knowledge about the basic theoretical frameworks and business model is below average. Student’s attitude towards learning through participation in teamwork and conducting assignments, is below average. Her/his capability to analyze organizational practices that facilitate different types of businesses is limited.

Assessment criteria - grade 3

Grade 3
The student has good entrepreneurial skills and understands components of establishing own business.
S/he has a good knowledge of the basic theoretical frameworks and business model which is necessary in business set up. S/he has a good attitude towards learning through participation in teamwork and conducting assignments. S/he has a good self- and group critical thinking. S/he can objectively measure the success of business.

Assessment criteria - grade 5

Grade 5
The student has excellent entrepreneurial skills in developing and in establishing both an innovative and viable business. S/he has excellent knowledge about the theoretical frameworks, business models and its application in practice. S/he has an excellent attitude towards learning through self-initiative and continuous and supportive participation in teamwork and in conducting assignments. S/he has an excellent measurements skills and analyses of business success.

Assessment criteria, approved/failed

The course is evaluated on a scale excellent (5), very good (4), good (3), satisfactory (2), fair (1), fail (0). The assessment criteria is presented on a scale 1 - 3 - 5.

Learning materials

All materials will be provided during the course.

Further information

This course might involve a project work commissioned by an external company.