Methodological Overview An Accessible Introduction to Entrepreneurship and

Methodological Overview An Accessible Introduction to Entrepreneurship and Independent Careers using a Blended – Learning Methodology

Contributors Dr. Pio Fenton, WIT (Primary Author) Other contributors: ◦ Ms. Angela Collins, WIT Careers Service ◦ Mr. Ciarán Cullen, Waterford County Enterprise Board ◦ Dr. Bill O Gorman, Centre for Enterprise Development and Regional Economy

Background Built upon need for career opportunities in economically disadvantaged area Aim to provide independent career options Entrepreneurial flavour Engender a sense of cohort Provide practical skills and instil confidence Blended learning for flexibility and sense of belonging

Aims & Objectives To engender a sense of empowerment in relation to the development of one's career specifically in terms of independent careers. Provide access to established entrepreneurs with a view to establishing grounded knowledge exchange To establish organic networks of support linking veteran entrepreneurs and novices in a manner that is good for all involved and has beneficial outcomes for the wider community. To provide a base of knowledge and skills that increase confidence and self-belief but that also act as a guiding rope for career development and goal-achievement. To induce a mindset of enablement that leads participants to seek further opportunities be they training, educational, vocational or venture oriented.

Structure Introduction Day ◦ Keynote speaker ◦ Group Activity ◦ Engagement with mentor Blended Learning Aspect ◦ Project Management for businesses ◦ Communication ◦ Entrepreneurship and Independent careers. Concluding /bridging event ◦ Challenge ◦ Future paths ◦ Motivation Period

Thoughts on the Development Methodology Some General Points Inbuilt iterative approach would be useful The concept of “Disadvantage” is quite narrow Androgogy vs. Pedagogy Some duplication in places Need to outline a role for lead partner more clearly Some points in the checklists are more to do with administration of the course rather than design of the course – these should be separated more clearly ◦ Overall - a strong helpful structure for the development of a program ◦ ◦ ◦

Specifics relating to aspects of the methodology Identify Interested parties Create mainstreaming committee Identify training needs Integrating and evaluating feedback Society as a stakeholder Establishing the support network Training needs assessment (engagement) Mentoring role needs clarification