The purpose of this learning experience is to cultivate students' entrepreneurial mindsets by engaging them in real-world problem-solving and innovation. Through hands-on projects, students will explore and apply universal design principles, gaining insights from community partners like KnoPro and local entrepreneurs. They will develop critical thinking, self-directed learning, and an academic mindset by identifying and addressing authentic challenges, ultimately presenting their solutions at an 'Entrepreneurial Expo' to foster community engagement and feedback.
Learning goals
Students will develop an entrepreneurial mindset by identifying and analyzing real-world problems, creating innovative solutions using universal design principles, and collaborating with community partners like KnoPro. Through interactive portfolios and reflection circles, students will engage in self-directed learning, critical thinking, and problem-solving, while building a sense of identity and belonging. The project culminates in an Entrepreneurial Expo, where students present their business ideas and prototypes, receiving feedback from external audiences to refine their solutions.
Standards
D2.Eco.7.6-8 - Analyze the role of innovation and entrepreneurship in a market economy.
D4.7.3-5 - Explain different strategies and approaches students and others could take in working alone and together to address local, regional, and global problems, and predict possible results of their actions.
9-12.AF.6.5 - Design, evaluate, and/or refine a solution to a complex real-world problem, based on scientific knowledge, student-generated sources of evidence, prioritized criteria, and tradeoff considerations.
Competencies
Self Directed Learning - Students use teacher and peer feedback and self-reflection to monitor and direct their own learning while building self knowledge both in and out of the classroom.
Academic Mindset - Students establish a sense of place, identity, and belonging to increase self-efficacy while engaging in critical reflection and action.
Critical Thinking & Problem Solving - Students consider a variety of innovative approaches to address and understand complex questions that are authentic and important to their communities.
Products
Throughout the learning experience, students will create interactive portfolios that document their entrepreneurial journey, showcasing their reflections, feedback, and evolving business ideas. By the end of the project, students will develop prototypes of their business concepts, which they will present at the 'Entrepreneurial Expo.' These prototypes will be accompanied by a comprehensive business plan that outlines their problem-solving approach, target audience, and potential impact.
Launch
Kick off the learning experience with a "Young Entrepreneurs' Day" where students engage in a hands-on simulation of running a business. Students will form small groups, brainstorm a product or service, and set up mini-market stalls in the classroom. They will practice pitching their ideas to classmates and community partners from KnoPro, who will act as potential investors. This interactive launch sets the stage for exploring entrepreneurial skills and fosters a sense of community and collaboration.
Exhibition
Students will culminate their entrepreneurial journey by participating in an 'Entrepreneurial Expo,' where they will set up interactive booths to present their business ideas and prototypes. The event will invite community members, local entrepreneurs, and family to engage with the students' projects, offering feedback and support. This public exhibition will provide students with an authentic audience, encouraging them to articulate their ideas clearly and demonstrate their learning process.
