Course Objectives

The students will be knowledgeable about the current entrepreneurial situation for business women and men, with an emphasis on the woman’s perspective of entrepreneurships and leadership in Norway. Students will analyze existing political strategies and Norwegian legislation regarding gender in leadership, business and entrepreneurship. Students will gain, through readings and discussions, aspects of networks, innovative business culture and gender research in an international context. New insights will offer motivation to explore innovative potential in the creation of small businesses run by women.

Course Description

The course will begin with an introduction and discussion of the main concepts and alternative strategies of business entrepreneurship, innovation and creativity as a social process, leadership strategies and achievements, gender patterns in the workplace, educational and political policy regarding women in leadership positions, women and entrepreneurship, network communication and mentoring, business culture in Norway and in other countries. A series of lecturers (from college staff and also local entrepreneurs) will provide the real-life biography by focusing on personal experience in developing leadership skills and sharing the challenges of starting an enterprise in Norway.

With a background in entrepreneurial theory, legislation and educational policy, central ideas on gender and power, students will apply theory to the current situation in Norway, where the main focus is on the innovative workplace. Students will examine statistics reflecting gender differences in business ownership and leadership and will explore questions like, “How does legislation affect men’s and women’s experiences of equal opportunity?” “Why does the Norwegian workface continue to reflect traditional gender divisions?” Students will relate questions to case studies presented by individual entrepreneurs and leaders.

Learning Methods

A series of lectures, case histories and studies, group or individual presentations, discussions, project paper, educational field trips. An emphasis will be placed on student participation. The language of instruction is English. Papers may be written in Norwegian on special application.

Assessment Methods

Mid-term: 1 student-lead class discussion and 1 oral presentation + short report (individual or group) 40%;Final exam: 1 semester project/paper 60 %. Letter grades from A-F, last passing grade is E. An emphasis will be placed on active participation.
All assessed elements of the course must be passed to pass the course.

Minor adjustments may occur during the academic year, subject to the decision of the Dean