Teaching Business and Entrepreneurship at OSP: A Personal Reflection
Oluwafikayo Modupe Akeredolu
As someone passionate about bridging academic theory with practical applications, teaching the
Business and Entrepreneurship course at the Oxford Summer Program (OSP) was an enriching
experience. It offered a unique platform to connect with bright and motivated students eager to
explore the intricacies of business management and entrepreneurial thinking.
Real-World Importance
The field of Business and Entrepreneurship is incredibly dynamic and relevant for students’future careers, regardless of their academic background. Understanding key concepts likebusiness strategy, financial management, and startup culture equips students with essentialskills to navigate the complexities of the modern economy. During my course, I emphasised the value of entrepreneurship as a career path and a mindset that fosters innovation, resilience, andstrategic thinking—indispensable qualities in any professional setting.
Teaching Experience and Innovative Methods
Teaching at OSP was distinct from traditional academic settings. The program's smaller class sizes and interactive nature enabled a more personalised approach to teaching. I designed the
curriculum to incorporate case studies, role-playing exercises, and project-based learning tosimulate real-world business challenges. One of the standout projects involved students
developing their own business plans, where they had to identify a market opportunity, create afinancial model, and pitch their ideas to a panel of judges. This hands-on approach encouraged
students to apply their theoretical knowledge and enhanced their critical thinking andproblem-solving skills.
Student Outcomes and
Reflections
​It was truly gratifying to witness the student’s growth throughout the program. Many started with
a rudimentary understanding of business concepts but quickly developed confidence in their ability to analyse and present complex ideas. The enthusiasm and creativity they brought to class discussions and project work were inspiring, and several students expressed interest in pursuing entrepreneurship beyond the program
Personal Reflections
Teaching at OSP was special because it allowed me to engage with students in a setting that values experiential learning and intellectual curiosity. The diverse international cohort provided arich environment for exchanging ideas and perspectives, making each class a learning experience for me. I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to such talented individuals'academic and personal development and look forward to returning to teach in future sessions.
Reflections on the OSP Business and Entrepreneurship Course
Teaching the Business and Entrepreneurship course at OSP was an incredibly enriching experience, mainly because of the remarkable cohort I had the privilege of working with. The students brought a wealth of diverse perspectives and a genuine eagerness to learn, making each session dynamic and thought-provoking.
One memorable moment was during the final project presentations, where students pitched their business ideas. The creativity, confidence, and depth of understanding they demonstrated were impressive and beyond what I could have anticipated at the start of the course. It was clear that the students absorbed the material and applied it innovatively, showcasing their potential as future leaders and entrepreneurs.
For future students, my advice would be to embrace every opportunity for discussion and collaboration. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box and challenge conventional wisdom. The OSP environment uniquely supports intellectual risk-taking; you never know where a bold idea might take you!
