Entrepreneurial Skills Dr.

Mohamed Anis Ferchichi (he/him)

Major: English: International Relations pro.medanis@gmail.com
Mondays: 8:30-11:30 AM English Department Credits (4)
Higher Institute of Social Sciences, TN
Fall 2023

Introduction to Entrepreneurial Skills

Course Description:

This course, "Introduction to Entrepreneurial Skills," is designed to provide students with a

comprehensive understanding of entrepreneurship and equip them with fundamental entrepreneurial
skills essential for success in the dynamic world of business. The course delves into the entrepreneurial
mindset, identifying and evaluating opportunities, market research, business modelling, financial
literacy, soft skills development, and legal and ethical considerations in entrepreneurship. Through a
blend of theoretical knowledge, practical applications, and experiential learning, students will gain a
strong foundation to embark on their entrepreneurial journey.

Learning Objectives:

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

1. Define Entrepreneurship: Articulate the concept of entrepreneurship, its evolution, and its
role in the modern global economy.
2. Identify Opportunities: Recognize entrepreneurial opportunities and employ effective
methods to generate, screen, and evaluate potential business ideas.
3. Conduct Market Research: Conduct comprehensive market research to understand target
markets, customer needs, and industry dynamics.
4. Develop Business Models and Plans: Formulate effective business models and plans,
utilizing tools like the Business Model Canvas, to structure and organise entrepreneurial
ventures.
5. Understand Financial Basics: Demonstrate an understanding of basic financial concepts,
including financial planning, budgeting, and cash flow management, crucial for
entrepreneurial success.
6. Enhance Soft Skills: Develop essential soft skills such as communication, negotiation,
leadership, and time management, which are critical for effective teamwork and business
growth.
7. Navigate Legal and Ethical Dimensions: Grasp the legal structures relevant to businesses,
ensuring compliance and understanding the ethical responsibilities associated with
entrepreneurship.
8. Pitch a Business Idea: Effectively pitch a business idea, incorporating learned skills and
knowledge, and receive constructive feedback.

Teaching Methodology:

The course adopts a multifaceted approach to learning, combining the following methodologies:

1. Lectures: Instructor-led lectures to introduce theoretical concepts, models, and frameworks.

 2. Group Discussions: Interactive group discussions to encourage critical thinking and diverse
perspectives on entrepreneurial topics.
3. Case Studies: Analyzing real-world cases to apply theoretical knowledge and develop
problem-solving skills.
4. Role-Playing and Simulations: Simulating entrepreneurial scenarios to enhance decision-
making and negotiation skills.
5. Guest Lectures: Inviting industry experts and successful entrepreneurs to share practical
insights and experiences.
6. Individual and Group Assignments: Engaging in assignments to apply the learned concepts
to hypothetical or real business scenarios.
7. Presentations: Delivering presentations on various aspects of entrepreneurship, fostering
effective communication and presentation skills.
8. Final Project (Business Pitch): Developing a comprehensive business pitch for a
hypothetical venture, integrating all aspects of the course.

Assessment:

Assessment will be based on a variety of components, including participation in class activities,

assignments, quizzes, the final business pitch project, and peer evaluations. The breakdown will be
as follows:

Presentations: 30%
Participation: 10%
Assignments: 30%
Quizzes and Exams: 20%
Peer Review of a Business Idea: 10%

Prerequisites:
No specific prerequisites are required. This course is open to all students interested in exploring
entrepreneurship and gaining foundational entrepreneurial skills.

Class Schedules

Week 1: (9/18) Class Absent

Week 2: (9/25) Class Absent
Week 3: (10/2) Introduction to Entrepreneurship
Week 4: (10/9) Soft Skills for Entrepreneurs
Week 5: (10/16) The Psychology of an Entrepreneurial Mindset
Week 6: (10/23) The Entrepreneurial Process
Week 7: (10/30) Market Research and Customer Development
Week 8: (11/6) Idea Generation & Validation
Week 9: (11/13) Business Planning & Strategy
Week 10: (11/20) Leadership and Team Building
Week 11: (11/27) Risk Management and Resilience
Week 12: (12/4) Social Impact & Sustainability
Week 13: (12/11) Legal, Regulatory & Ethical Considerations