About project
There is a need for transformation in education. In order to be prepared and tackle uncertainties and challenges, especially environmentally and societally, in the future, young students in higher education need to be trained to gain the right skills and mindset. Social problems are rampant, for example, imigration, poverty, unequal opportunity, etc. Therefore, working on solving these social issues is becoming even more important. That is why social entrepreneurship plays a key role in making our society lively.
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This project focuses on how to use a digital educational escape room to help reimagine teaching & learning in social entrepreneurship in higher education, and also how we might develop a (conceptual) framework to develop such an escape room.
Understanding the concept of social enterprises and social entrepreneurship
defining social enterprises and social entrepreneurs
Objective: the objective of this activity is to define social enterprises and social entrepreneurs, and highlight their similarities.
Materials: whiteboard or flip chart, markers
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Instructions:
Begin by explaining the importance of understanding social enterprises and social entrepreneurs.
Mention that the focus of the discussion will be on their definitions and the similarities between them.
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Definition of social enterprises
Write the definition provided by the organization for economic co-operation and development (OECD) on the
whiteboard or flip chart: "social enterprise is any private activity conducted in the public interest, organized with an entrepreneurial strategy, but whose main purpose is not the maximization of profit but the attainment of certain economic and social goals, and which can bring innovative solutions to the problems of society" (OECD, 1999).
Discuss the key elements of the definition, such as private activity, public interest, entrepreneurial strategy, non-profit maximization, economic and social goals, and innovative solutions. Encourage participants to ask questions or share their understanding of social enterprises.
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Definition of social entrepreneurs
Write the definition of a social entrepreneur on the whiteboard or flip chart:
"Nicholls (2006) defines social entrepreneurship as ‘innovative and effective activities that focus strategically on resolving social market failures and creating new opportunities to add social values system by using a range of resources and organisational format to maximize social impact and bring about change. Highlight the primary focus of social entrepreneurs on contributing to societal well-being, with profit being considered subsidiary but crucial for survival.
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Facilitate a discussion to ensure participants grasp the concept of social entrepreneurs and their dedication to solving social issues.
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Characteristics of social entrepreneurship
Summarize the main points by identifying the major characteristics of social entrepreneurship as shown below:
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https://unesdoc.unesco.org/ark:/48223/pf0000245656
THE FOUR CENTRAL QUESTIONS THAT LED YOU TO THE CORE OF SOCIAL ENTERPRISE.
The journey to the core of social enterprises is driven by four central questions.
These are as follows:
What is the mission of the social enterprise? The first question revolves around understanding the fundamental purpose of a social enterprise, which is to address and solve social problems. These organizations are driven by a mission to make a positive impact on society and create sustainable change.
How does the social entrepreneur intend to solve the identified problem? This question delves into the strategies employed by social entrepreneurs to tackle the social issue at hand. They employ various approaches such as market segmentation, innovative problem-solving skills, and collaboration with stakeholders to develop effective solutions.
What is the timeline for solving the identified problem? Social entrepreneurs consider the timeframe required to address the social problem, considering logistical factors, available support systems, and relevant legislation.
Who is the target audience or focus of the problem? The final question centres around identifying the specific social issues or areas of focus that the social enterprise aims to address. This can range from climate change and gender inequality to poverty alleviation and access to education.
Answering these four central questions allows social entrepreneurs to clarify their mission, devise effective strategies, establish realistic timelines, and determine their target audience.
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http://socialgoodstuff.com/2019/02/the-four-cs-of-effective-social-entrepreneurship/
https://www.investopedia.com/terms/s/social-entrepreneur.asp