Entrepreneurship
Entrepreneurship
NATIONAL CERTIFICATE I
LEARNING OUTCOMES
Self-Assessment 2................................................................................................................14
Self-Assessment 3……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..22
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UNIT INTRODUCTION AND PRELIMINARY NOTE
You are welcome once again to this learning material. This material introduces learners to Creativity
and innovation. This unit draws your attention to the knowledge of creativity and innovation and
skill in creativity. After the learning, you will be able to differentiate between creativity and
innovation, gain the skill of creativity, and use this skill to generate business ideas and solve
problems.
This learning material should be used with the unit specification given, as the unit specification will
guide you on the standards stated with all the range statements. You should also be guided by the
evidence requirements so that your learning is relevant to the required standards.
The way the learning material is written is to encourage learner autonomy and initiative (i.e.,
activities that require the learner to work independently of the facilitator and to make decisions
concerning how he/she might approach a task) so that you as a learner can take ownership of your
own learning. Follow the instructions and the steps indicated in the learning material and work as
independently as possible.
The next page shows the symbols (icons) that will be used frequently in this material. It also gives
the meaning of the icons, so that any time you see the icon, you will understand what it means.
Please feel free to ask your facilitator any question you have as you read the material.
The meaning of each icon is provided in Table 1. You will come across these icons in the
material, and you should know what each of them represents. Carefully observe the icons and
their meanings.
# Icons Meaning
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Learning Outcome
2 Self-Assessment
solutions, or concepts. It involves thinking outside the box, breaking away from conventional
patterns, and exploring uncharted territories of thought such as new processes to help us do
something better, new ways of using existing products, new services to supply to new or
existing customers, etc. in most cases we think creativity is limited to the artist but creativity is
not limited to artistic endeavours it extends to problem-solving, decision-making, and the
development of new products, services, and processes in various fields. A creative individual
can connect seemingly unrelated ideas, recognize patterns others might miss, and come up
with fresh perspectives such as this way chocolate drink, Koko King. Creativity is the act of
conceiving something new.
4. It Increases Productivity: Creativity gives you the space to work smarter instead of harder, which
can increase productivity and combat stagnation in the workplace.
5. Cultural Enrichment: Creativity in arts, literature, music, and other cultural spheres enriches
society's cultural heritage and diversity.
6. It allows for Adaptability: Internal and external events can affect a business. For example, the
COVID-19 pandemic impacted a lot of businesses. In such instances, imaginative thinking is
critical to maintaining business operations.
While creativity is a powerful and essential aspect of human thinking, there are various barriers that
can hinder its expression and development. Below are some barriers to creativity:
1. Fear of Failure: The fear of making mistakes or failing can stifle creative thinking. When
individuals are overly concerned about the consequences of their ideas not being well-
received or successful, they might avoid taking risks and exploring new possibilities.
2. Lack of Confidence: Low self-confidence can lead individuals to doubt their creative abilities.
Believing that one is not creative enough can create a self-fulfilling prophecy and prevent
one from pursuing innovative ideas.
3. Rigidity and Routine: Sticking to rigid routines and established processes can limit exposure
to new experiences and ideas. Creativity thrives when individuals break away from habitual
patterns and explore unfamiliar territories.
4. Conformity and Groupthink: The pressure to conform to societal norms or group opinions
can hinder original thinking. In group settings, the desire for harmony might lead to
groupthink, where creative ideas are suppressed in favor of consensus.
5. Lack of Time and Resources: Creativity requires time for exploration experimentation, and
iteration. A lack of time, along with limited resources, can restrict the opportunity to delve
into creative thinking and problem-solving.
6. Negative Criticism: Early-stage ideas are often fragile and susceptible to criticism. Harsh or
dismissive criticism can discourage individuals from pursuing their creative visions, leading
them to abandon potentially valuable concepts.
8. Fixed Mindset: Individuals with a fixed mindset believe that abilities are innate and
unchangeable. This mindset can discourage efforts to develop creative skills, as people may
believe they are not naturally creative.
9. Stress: stress can impede cognitive functioning and creative thinking. A rested and balanced
mind is more capable of generating imaginative ideas.
11.Narrow Definition of Creativity: Some people might hold a limited view of creativity,
associating it only with artistic pursuits. This narrow definition can discourage individuals
from exploring their creative potential in other domains.
Enhancing creativity involves creating an environment and mindset that encourages the generation
of novel and valuable ideas. Below are some factors that enhance creativity:
1. Open and Supportive Environment: Encouraging an atmosphere where individuals feel safe
to express their ideas without fear of criticism or judgment. Providing opportunities for
open discussions, brainstorming sessions, and idea-sharing. Emracing diversity of thought
and encouraging collaboration among individuals with different backgrounds and
perspectives.
2. Curiosity and Exploration: Cultivating a sense of curiosity and an eagerness to explore new
topics, ideas, and experiences. Encouraging a willingness to question assumptions and
challenge existing norms.
3. Freedom to Fail: Creating a culture where failure is seen as a stepping stone to success rather
than a negative outcome. Allowing individuals, the freedom to take risks, experiment, and
learn from their mistakes.
4. Time for Reflection: Providing time for individuals to step back from day-to-day tasks and
engage in deep, contemplative thinking.
6. Playfulness and Experimentation: Incorporating playful activities and exercises that promote
imaginative thinking. Creating an environment where experimentation and unconventional
approaches are encouraged.
7. Autonomy and Ownership: Allowing individuals to take ownership of their projects and
ideas, giving them a sense of responsibility and motivation to innovate. Granting autonomy
in decision-making can boost intrinsic motivation.
8. Exposure to Stimuli: Providing exposure to diverse stimuli such as art, literature, nature,
and technology, can inspire new ideas. Encouraging individuals to explore different sources
of inspiration outside their immediate field.
12.Inspiration from Failure and Challenges: Viewing failures and challenges as opportunities
for growth and innovation. Using setbacks as sources of inspiration for creative problem-
solving.
1. Brainstorming: This technique is a process in which a small group of people interact with
very little structure to generate many ideas, without judgment, to encourage free
thinking.
Mind Mapping: Another useful tool for creativity is mind mapping, an extension of
brainstorming. In mind mapping, you create visual diagrams representing ideas,
concepts, and relationships. Mind maps can help you see connections between
seemingly unrelated ideas. One strength of mind mapping is that it reflects how the
brain works.
3. Force-Field Analysis: Force-field analysis is a useful technique for evaluating the forces
that support and oppose a proposed change. It allows entrepreneurs to weigh both
the advantages and the disadvantages of a particular decision and work to maximize
the variables that support it and minimize those that work against it.
4. Mindfulness and Open-Mindedness: Being present at the moment and open to new
experiences can help you notice details and connections that might otherwise go
unnoticed.
Congratulations! You have come to the end of LO1 in this unit. Let's take
some assessment.
Self-Assessment 1
This learning outcome (LO) has a little quiz at the end. I recommend you take this whole quiz without looking
back for any of the answers. This is meant to help you determine how well you have understood this learning
outcome. Now assess yourself with the questions below.
1. Entrepreneurs must be creative to think outside the box, create value, useful unique products,
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2. Creativity is one of the most required skills nowadays. with the development of machine
learning and artificial intelligence, organizations need creative thinkers who carry new ideas to the table.
State five importance of creativity in generating ideas in your trade
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2. Creativity boost productivity and make organizations successful yet most entrepreneurs do
not use their creativity. State any five barriers to creativity that entrepreneurs should know
and avoid in order to be more creative
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4. Adwoa an entrepreneur friend of yours have heard that creativity is vital to the success
of every entrepreneurial venture. State five factors that enhance creativity to Adwoa
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5. There are numerous techniques in developing creativity. State any four techniques for
developing creativity
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L O 2. Demonstrate knowledge of application of creativity
This I,O in developed to help you acquire skills in creativity and know the features of a creative
person as per PC's (a)-(e).
6. Risk-Taking: Creativity often involves stepping outside of one's comfort zone and
taking risks. Creative people are more willing to experiment and try new things,
even if it means facing failure.
8. Passion: A strong passion for their chosen creative pursuits drives creative
individuals to invest time, effort, and energy into their work. This dedication helps
them overcome obstacles and refine their craft.
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9. Expression: Creative people often excel at expressing themselves through various mediums,
such as art, writing, music, or other forms of communication.
10.Observation Creative individuals are keen observers of the world around them. They draw
inspiration from everyday life and notice details that others might overlook.
11. Collaboration: Creative people are often open to sharing ideas and collaborating with
diverse individuals.
12.Resilience: Creative individuals exhibit resilience, bouncing back from failures and using
them as opportunities for growth.
13. Unconventional Thinking: Creative minds people think outside the box and challenge
conventional norms. They embrace new ways of thinking and challenge established ideas.
Step 1: Preparation
This stage involves getting the mind ready for creative thinking. Preparation also includes formal
education, on-the-job training, work experience, and other learning opportunities. This training
provides a foundation on which to build creativity. Again in preparation you gather information,
research, to gain knowledge and understanding your environment and problem or project at
hand.
Step 2: Investigation
This step requires one to develop a solid understanding of the problem, situation, or decision at
hand. To create new ideas and concepts in a particular field, an individual first must study the
problem and understand its basic components. Creative thinking comes about when people make
careful observations of the world around them and then investigate the way things work.
Step 3: Transformation
Transformation involves viewing the similarities and differences among the information collected.
The most creative idea comes from people being able to connect things where other people don't
make connections.
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Step 4: Incubation
At this stage you allow the mind to reflect on the information collected, take a step back from
the problem, and allow your mind to wander to let it contemplate and work the problem
through. You nurture the unconscious thought process, for example, by staying open to the ideas
that come to you while you are doing your chaos.
Stepn5: Illumination
Also known as the "aha!" moment, this is when a breakthrough idea or insight emerges seemingly
out of nowhere. It's often a sudden realization or connection that solves a problem or sparks a
creative concept.
Step 6: Evaluation
Here, you assess the feasibility, usefulness, and value of the idea. You consider whether it aligns with
your goals and if it's worth pursuing further.
Step7: Verification:
This step involves testing and refining your idea or creation to ensure it meets the desired outcome.
You might seek feedback from others, make adjustments, and fine-tune your work.
Step 8: Implementation
This is where you put your idea into action. Whether creating a piece of art, writing a story, designing
a product, or solving a problem, you bring your idea to life.
Step 9: Reflection After completing the implementation, take time to reflect on the entire process,
Consider what you learned, what worked well, and what could be improved. This stage provides
insights that can enhance your future creative endeavours.
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PC (c) Sketch recognizable objects from circles
In this section, you will use the knowledge you have
gained in PC (b) to create recognizable object from
circles. A circle is a round-shaped figure that has no
corners or edges. Circles are used to create a variety of
objects, including clocks, cars, ships, aeroplanes,
radios, telephones, wheelbarrows, air conditioners,
rockets, wheels, roundabouts, balls, balloons, globes, car tyres, and more. Circle was used for the
design of a watch to help solve time issues. Tyre was made in a circle to carry the weight of a car and
propel it; earthenware was made in a circle to blend vegetables and eat fufu. In drawing recognizable
object from a circle, you need
Step 4: At the center of the clock, draw two lines representing the hour and minute hands.
Step 5: Add small lines or dots between the numbers to represent the minutes.
Step 6: Add a frame or border around the clock face to give it a finished look.
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PC(d)State uses of paper clip
i. Keyholder
ii. Hang photos
iii. Fasten a food bag
iv. Open an envelope
v. Clean your nails
vi. Unclog a hole
vii. Doll hangers
viii. Secure wrapping rubbers
ix. Mini screwdriver
x. Fix a zipper
xi. Hair clip
xii. Bracelets, etc
To be able to outline resources for creating a business idea, the following steps should be
considered:
Step 1: List five items available to you. It could be sachet rubber, empty water bottles, palm
kernel nuts, sawdust, corn husk, etc.
Congratulations! You have come to the end of LO2 in this unit. Let's take some
assessment.
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Self-Assessment 2
This learning outcome (LO) has a little quiz at the end. I recommend you take this whole qutz
without looking back for any of the answers. This is meant to help you determine how well you
have understood this learning outcome. Now assess yourself with the questions below.
1. Ama is aspiring to become an entrepreneur and has heard that creative persons should
possess certain features. State any five features of a creative person to Ama.
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2. Kweku wants to develop his creativity. State and explain to Kwaku the steps involved in
developing creativity
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3. A circle is a round-shaped figure that has no corners or edges. Creative persons form
useful objects from circles. List five (5) recognizable objects you can create from a circle
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4. Paper clip is a piece of bent wire or plastic used for holding several sheets of paper
together, yet this paper clip has many uses. List five (5) uses of a paper clip
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5. Numerous ideas can be generated from the resources around us State Five (5)
idem you can generate from an empty cardboard box
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LO 3. Demonstrate knowledge of innovation
This LO is developed to help you acquire knowledge of innovation and differentiate between
creativity and innovation as per PC's (a)-(e).
practices in order to achieve advancements and make a meaningful impact. Innovation can occur in
various fields, such as technology, business, science, healthcare, education, and more.
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Table 1: Differences between Creativity and Innovation
BASIS FOR
CREATIVITY INNOVATION
COMPARISON
Quantifiable No Yes
Risk No Yes
1. Product Innovation: This type of innovation involves creating of improving products and
services. It often focuses on enhancing features, functionality, performance, and design to
meet customer needs better.
3. Business Model Innovation: Business model innovation involves reimagining how a company
creates, delivers, and captures value. It could include changes to pricing strategies, distribution
channels, partnerships, and revenue models
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5. Service Innovation: Service innovation pertains to creating new or improved services that
better meet customer needs. This can involve changes in service delivery, customer
experience and service offerings.
10.Design Innovation: Design innovation centers around creating products, services, and
experiences that are visually appealing, user-friendly, and emotionally resonant. It
emphasizes the role of design in enhancing customer engagement.
Economic Growth and Competitiveness: Innovation drives economic growth by creating new
products, services, and processes that meet evolving consumer demands. It enhances the
competitiveness of businesses and nations in the global market, leading to increased
productivity and higher living standards.
5. Enhanced Quality of Life: Many innovations aim to enhance people's quality of life by
improving daily experiences, healthcare outcomes, educational opportunities, and
more. Advancements like medical technologies, smart devices, and renewable energy
sources contribute to a higher standard of living.
6. Job Creation: Innovation stimulates job creation by generating new industries and
markets. As novel ideas evolve into viable businesses, they require a workforce with a
diverse range of skills, leading to increased employment opportunities.
8. Global Progress: Collaboration and knowledge sharing are often crucial in fostering
innovation. As ideas and technologies spread globally, they contribute to the collective
progress of humanity, helping to address common challenges and create shared
benefits.
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10.Continuous Improvement: The pursuit of innovation encourages a culture of continuous
improvement. By seeking better ways of doing things, organizations remain dynamic,
relevant, and open to adapting to evolving circumstances.
PC (e) Outline principles of innovation
Innovation is guided by a set of principles that help individuals, organizations, and societies foster
creativity, generate new ideas, and turn those ideas into tangible solutions. Here are some
commonly recognized principles of innovation:
1. Curiosity: Cultivate a natural sense of curiosity about the world around you. Question
assumptions explore new avenues, and seek out information from diverse sources.
2. Creativity. Encourage creative thinking by allowing yourself or your team the freedom to
brainstorm, ideate, and think outside the box. Create an environment where
unconventional ideas are valued.
3. Problem Solving: Focus on addressing real challenges and needs. Innovations often
5. Iterative Process: Understand that innovation is not a one-time event. It's an iterative
process that involves continuous refinement, testing, and improvement based on
feedback.
7. Ethical Considerations: Ensure that your innovations adhere to ethical standards and
contribute positively to society. Consider potential social, environmental, and cultural
impacts.
Congratulations! You have come to the end of LO1 in this unit. Let's take some
assessment.
Self-Assessment 3
This learning outcome (LO) has a little quiz at the end. I recommend you take this whole quiz without
looking back for any of the answers. This is meant to help you determine how well you have
understood this learning outcome. Now assess yourself with the questions below.
2. Aba and Esi have been arguing about creativity and innovation. Aba thinks creativity is the
same as innovation. Esi is of the view that creativity is different from innovation. They came to
you to settle this argument because they heard that you had done a course on creativity and
innovation. State the difference between creativity and innovation to Aba and Esi
3. There are different types of innovation. State and explain any five types of innovation
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5. An entrepreneur friend of yours want to know why he should be innovative. State
five importance of innovation to this friend of yours
5. Aku wants to know the principles that guide innovation. Outline any
five(5)principles of innovation to Aku.
between creativity and innovation, state the types of We believe that you can now
explain innovation, differentiate innovation, explain the types of innovation, state the
importance of innovation, and outline the principles of innovation
References
1. Barringer, B. R., and Ireland, R. D. (2012). Entrepreneurship, 4th ed., United State of
America: Pearson Educational Limited.
2. Bessant, J. and Tidd, J. (2015). Innovation and Entrepreneurship, 3rd ed.. United
Kingdom: John Wiley & Sons Ltd
4. Scarborough, N.M. & Cornwall, J.R. (2016). Essentials of Entrepreneurship and Small
Business Management, 8th ed., U. S. A.: Pearson Educational Limited.