Module Catalogue 2025/26

Pre Requisite Comment

N/A

Co Requisite Comment

N/A

Aims

To practice the process of innovation and opportunity development through examination and testing of assumptions upon which value propositions are based.

The module will use a scientific approach to the analysis of identifiable problems; refining and validating problems before moving on to solutions. Students are expected to identify real potential users and stakeholders and develop a plan to collect insights that demonstrate an opportunity for innovation.

Outline Of Syllabus

The problem-opportunity development process will be offered as a toolkit through the module sessions, including;
•       Problem identification
•       Critiquing and constructing project and value propositions
•       Market research and the testing of assumptions
•       Finding customers/users
•       Group Coaching sessions
•       Introduction to Responsible Research and Innovation (RRI)
•       Guest lecture on developing entrepreneurial ideas, exploring freelancing, launching a venture,
•       Guest lecture and workshop on career planning, CV/Cover Letters
•       Guest lecture with speakers from a startup

Intended Knowledge Outcomes

On completion of this module students will be able to:
•       Deploy tools to critically evaluate, construct and present actionable problems stimulated by global challenges
•       Establish a process through which to research, communicate, market and test trade ideas
•       Critique approaches to innovation and define a robust and responsible research and innovation process that students can use beyond the module

Intended Skill Outcomes

To be able to critically self-appraise individual skills sets and interests, collaborating with others to fulfil the needs of a performing team
To be able to understand and plan for objective market research approaches to understand problems and ethical opportunities.
To be able to plan and manage study time and practical work beyond timetabled sessions
To be able to communicate and work effectively within an interdisciplinary team

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

This module invites students to ‘bring their individual skills and interests with them’ and combine personal experience, industrial knowledge and interest areas to facilitate ideation, innovation, and problem solving.
A significant focus of the module is on the individual’s ability to self-appraise their own capacities and capabilities for problem-solving through innovation with a view to how they may be deployed to solve problems and approach work in the future.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

Assessment will be completed within the taught block and therefore will present secondary research and a plan for primary market research, rather than undertaking the market research itself. The formative assessment provides a checkpoint to ensure that students are progressing appropriately and a chance to gain feedback and ideas for what to do next to complete their report.
The module will be 100% group work and the scaffold, and individual outcomes for this will be managed through other areas of the MSc.

General Notes

N/A