The University Library and learning resources
Electronic data bases such as Athens and EBSCO

The learning strategy of this module requires students to commit 300 learning hours comprising 48 hours of class support and 252 hours of independent and self-directed study.

As guidance, students may typically be expected to allocate the hours indicated below to the following activities during independent and self-directed study time;
reading and preparation for class contact (64);worked based learning (64);
additional research & reading (24); preparation of coursework assignments (100)

Action Learning Sets will be utilised, as part of the independent learning time, where students will have the opportunity to look at the real problems which concern them, rather than considering hypothetical ones. They will also enable students to make commitments to action which they would not necessarily be in a position to do after having listened to a lecture or seminar, or as an individual working in isolation.

The module examines the process involved in growing the business after successful implementation of the first idea, including:

Strategic analysis of the businesses market and its competitors.
Identifying growth opportunities
Constraints-internal and external on the growth process
Ensuring resources are deployed to support the growth plan
Employing people; Choosing a site. Further finance
Strategic alliances
Corporate development
Effective long term business planning in a dynamic market place
Controlling the growth; Exit strategy

A work-based assignment (2000 words) which will support a three year forecast (50%) (LOs 1-4)
A Reflective Journal (30%) detailing the process and assumptions in preparing the forecast (LOs 1-4)
Individual presentation (10 mins) using appropriate presentation technology (20%) (LO 2)

Wickham P. (1998) Strategic Entrepreneurship, Pitman
Burns P. (2001) Entrepreneurship and Small Business, Palgrave