Vai al contenuto principale
Logo Università
  • Italiano
  • English
  • Logo Unita;
  • Logo Università
  • exit_to_app Esci
Logo di PhD Programme in Innovation for the Circular Economy

Doctoral school

PhD Programme in Innovation for the Circular Economy

search
menu
Avvia la ricerca.
Search in: Advanced search
Throughout the site Notices Teachers Courses Teaching materials
Logo di PhD Programme in Innovation for the Circular Economy
  • Home
  • PhD programme
    • About this programme
    • Admissions
    • Research themes
    • After the PhD
    • International dimension
    • Quality assurance
      • AQ PhD System
      • Students opinion
    • Contacts
    • Where we are
  • People
    • Coordinator
    • Vice-coordinator
    • Faculty
    • PhD students
      • XL Cycle
      • XXXIX Cycle
      • XXXVIII Cycle
      • XXXIII Cycle
  • Academic training
    • About the courses
    • Courses
    • Calendar
    • Seminars
    • How to get the title
    • Topics for the thesis
    • Supporting facilities
  • Opportunities
    • Job placement
    • Home
    • PhD programmearrow_drop_down
      • About this programme
      • Admissions
      • Research themes
      • After the PhD
      • International dimension
      • Quality assurancearrow_drop_down
        • AQ PhD System
        • Students opinion
      • Contacts
      • Where we are
    • Peoplearrow_drop_down
      • Coordinator
      • Vice-coordinator
      • Faculty
      • PhD studentsarrow_drop_down
        • XL Cycle
        • XXXIX Cycle
        • XXXVIII Cycle
        • XXXIII Cycle
    • Academic trainingarrow_drop_down
      • About the courses
      • Courses
      • Calendar
      • Seminars
      • How to get the title
      • Topics for the thesis
      • Supporting facilities
    • Opportunitiesarrow_drop_down
      • Job placement
    • Home
    • Courses
    • PhD Course Syllabus: Startups and Innovation
    Oggetto:

    PhD Course Syllabus: Startups and Innovation

    Oggetto:

    PhD Course Syllabus: Startups and Innovation

    Oggetto:

    Academic year 2024/2025

    Course ID
    ECM0390
    Teacher
    Paola Pisano (Lecturer)
    Degree course
    [000001] PHD PROGRAMME IN INNOVATION FOR THE CIRCULAR ECONOMY
    Year
    1st year
    Teaching period
    Second semester
    Type
    Basic
    Credits/Recognition
    2
    Credits 24 CFU plan
    2
    Course disciplinary sector (SSD)
    SSD: SECS-P/08 - management
    Delivery
    Formal authority
    Language
    English
    Attendance
    Obligatory
    Type of examination
    Written
    Prerequisites
    1. Basic understanding of key concepts in innovation management, entrepreneurship, and business development.
    2. Experience with academic research methodologies, including literature reviews and data analysis.
    3. Basic Understanding of Digital Tools and Technologies:
    4.General familiarity with digital tools commonly used in academic and professional settings (e.g., data visualization tools, online research databases).
    No prior experience with AI is required, but an interest in learning how AI can support innovation processes is expected.
    Oggetto:

    Sommario del corso

    • Course objectives
    • Results of learning outcomes
    • Program
    • Course delivery
    • Learning assessment methods
    • Suggested readings and bibliography
    • Notes
    • Teaching tools
    • Course card
    Oggetto:

    Course objectives

    The primary objective of the PhD Course on Startups and Innovation is to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of how entrepreneurship drives technological, environmental, and social progress, particularly within the context of sustainability and the circular economy. By integrating foundational principles of entrepreneurship with practical tools and methodologies, students will gain the skills necessary to transform innovative ideas and academic research into impactful, market-ready solutions.

    The course emphasizes startups' critical role in fostering innovation ecosystems and economic development, highlighting the intersection of sustainability goals and emerging technologies like AI. Students will learn how to identify and address real-world challenges through problem-solving techniques, customer-centric design, and strategic business planning.

    Additionally, the course will provide hands-on exposure to AI tools that enhance various stages of the entrepreneurial journey—from ideation and market analysis to business model development and stakeholder engagement. 

    Oggetto:

    Results of learning outcomes

    Students will achieve the following outcomes:

    1. Foundational Knowledge in Entrepreneurship and Innovation:Understand the role of startups in driving technological, environmental, and social progress

    2. Ability to Translate Research into Market-Ready Innovations: Develop the skills to move from academic research to practical applications, understanding the stages of the innovation journey, including Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs). Identify challenges in knowledge and technology transfer and apply strategies to overcome them.

    3. Proficiency in Using AI Tools for Innovation: Gain hands-on experience with AI tools that support ideation, literature review, patent analysis, customer sentiment analysis, prototyping, and business model development.

    4. Design and Development of Business Models: Apply frameworks such as the Lean Startup methodology and Business Model Canvas to structure viable, sustainable business ideas. Use AI-driven tools to test hypotheses, analyze market dynamics, and refine business models based on real-time feedback.

    5. Effective Communication and Stakeholder Engagement: Create compelling business plans and pitch decks tailored to attract investors and other key stakeholders.Leverage AI-powered tools to enhance presentations, financial projections, and storytelling.

    6. Practical Application through Co-Design and Feedback: Participate in interactive sessions, including a panel discussion with academic spin-out founders and innovation managers, to gain insights from real-world entrepreneurial experiences. Engage in co-design activities and receive feedback to refine ideas and approaches.

    Final Deliverable:


    Students will conclude the course by developing and presenting a comprehensive startup pitch, incorporating AI-driven insights, a well-structured business model, and a clear demonstration of how their innovation addresses market needs and sustainability goals.

    Oggetto:

    Program

    Day 1:

    Chapter 1: Introduction to Entrepreneurship and Innovation

    The first module will establish a foundational understanding of entrepreneurship and innovation, focusing on startups' critical role within the broader innovation ecosystem. We will evaluate their impact on economic development, market transformation, and capacity to address pressing global challenges. Particular emphasis will be placed on how sustainability fosters innovation and the role of AI in modern entrepreneurial pathways and ecosystems.

    Content:

    • Defining startups in driving technological, environmental, and social progress
    • Entrepreneurship as a vehicle for sustainability and circular economy goals
    • How AI accelerates startup processes: from ideation to scaling

    Chapter 2: From Research to Innovation

    This module will explore how innovative ideas are developed and how disruptive innovation creates new market opportunities, reshaping competition. It aims to equip students with insights on translating research into impactful innovations within academia, institutions, and industry.

    Content:

    • How Innovation is different in various contexts:
    • The innovation journey: Moving from research findings to market solutions
    • Understanding Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs)
    • Challenges in knowledge and technology transfer from Academia

    AI Instruments at Support:

    • Patent analysis and trend detection tools (e.g., PatentSight, Lens.org)
    • AI for literature review and research gap analysis (e.g., Scite, Semantic Scholar AI tools)

    Possible Testimonials:

    A 1-hour panel discussion with academic spin-out founders versus tech transfer officers or innovation managers from industry

     

    Day 2

    Chapter 3: From Innovative Ideas to Market and Clients

    This module will examine methods for identifying emerging trends and analyzing shifts in global markets for our innovative ideas. A key focus will be understanding customers' latent needs through comprehensive problem analysis and designing innovative solutions using Design Thinking methodology supported by AI tools.

    Content:

    • Problem-framing and customer empathy: Tools and techniques
    • Ideation and prototype development using AI

    AI Instruments at Support:

    • AI-based customer sentiment analysis tools (e.g., MonkeyLearn, Sprinklr)
    • Prototyping tools with AI enhancements (e.g., Figma with AI plugins)

    Chapter 4: Developing a Business Idea

    In this module, we will focus on the essential frameworks for every entrepreneur. We will introduce key concepts related to business model frameworks, analyzing their different types and implications. We will explore how to structure a system that creates value for the customer and ensures economic sustainability and company growth.
    Content:

    • Introduction to Lean Startup principles: Build, Measure, Learn cycles
    • Business Model Canvas: Elements and applications for startups
    • Iterating based on customer feedback and market dynamics

    AI Instruments at Support:

    • Business model visualization tools (e.g., Canvanizer, Strategyzer)
    • AI-driven analytics for testing hypotheses and market feedback (e.g., Qualtrics)

    Chapter 5: Convincing Other Stakeholders

    The final module will focus on convincing other stakeholders and structure an effective presentation that captures investors' attention and support.
    Content:

    • Drafting a compelling business plan: Key components and financials
    • Transitioning from a business plan to a concise and impactful pitch deck

    AI Instruments at Support:

    • AI-powered pitch deck creators (e.g., Beautiful.ai, Pitch)
    • Financial projection tools with AI-driven insights (e.g., LivePlan)
    Oggetto:

    Course delivery

    The PhD Course on Startups and Innovation will be delivered through a combination of interactive lectures, hands-on workshops, and practical application sessions to ensure a dynamic and engaging learning experience. The course structure emphasizes theoretical foundations and real-world applications, fostering active participation and critical thinking.

    1. Interactive Lectures: Each module will begin with an in-depth lecture covering core concepts of entrepreneurship, innovation, and sustainability. Lectures will incorporate case studies and real-world examples to contextualize theoretical knowledge.

    2. Hands-On Workshops and Practical Exercises: Students will engage in AI tool demonstrations to apply concepts learned in class, including patent analysis, market research, and prototyping tools. Workshops will include Design Thinking sessions to develop problem-solving skills and foster innovative ideas.

    3. Collaborative Learning and Group Activities: Participants will work in small groups to co-design business models and develop startup concepts, encouraging peer-to-peer learning.Group discussions and feedback sessions will be integral to refining ideas and fostering collaboration.

    4. Guest Speakers and Panel Discussions: Industry experts, academic spin-out founders, and tech transfer officers will participate in panel discussions to provide insights into the challenges and opportunities in innovation and entrepreneurship.These sessions will allow students to ask questions and gain practical knowledge from professionals in the field.

    5. AI-Enhanced Learning: The course will integrate AI tools at various stages, from literature reviews to market analysis, providing students with practical skills to leverage technology in their entrepreneurial journeys. AI-driven feedback mechanisms will support iterative learning and refinement of business ideas.

    6. Final Presentation and Evaluation:The course will culminate in a final pitch presentation, where students will showcase their startup ideas, business models, and strategic plans using AI-supported insights.

     

    Oggetto:

    Learning assessment methods

     

     The assessments are designed to measure both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, particularly in applying AI tools and entrepreneurial frameworks.

    1. Formative Assessments (Ongoing Evaluation):

      • Class Participation and Engagement (30%) Active participation in discussions, workshops, and group activities will be assessed to ensure students engage with the material and contribute to collaborative learning. Contributions during panel discussions and interactions with guest speakers will also be evaluated.

    2. Summative Assessments (Final Evaluation):

      • Group Project: Business Model Development (40%)Students will work in groups to develop a comprehensive business model using frameworks such as the Lean Startup Methodology and Business Model Canvas. Assessment will focus on the feasibility, sustainability, and innovation of the business model, as well as the integration of AI-driven insights.

      • Final Pitch Presentation (30%) Each student (or group) will deliver a final pitch presentation that showcases their startup idea, business model, and strategy for scaling and sustainability. The pitch will be evaluated on the following criteria:

        • Clarity and structure of the presentation
        • Innovation and relevance to sustainability and circular economy goals
        • Effective use of AI tools in research, development, and presentation
        • Ability to address stakeholder needs and respond to feedback
    3. Peer Feedback and Self-Assessment (optional bonus):

      • Students can provide peer feedback on each other's business models and pitches, fostering a collaborative learning environment.
      • Self-assessment reflections on the learning journey, challenges faced, and skills developed may be included for additional bonus
     
     
     
    • data-has-thread-error
    • data-has-thread-error
    :[box-shadow:var(--sharp-edge-bottom-shadow)] has-
    :pt-2">  
       
    Descrizione

    Suggested readings and bibliography



    Oggetto:
    Book
    Title:  
    Future Tech Startups and Innovation in the Age of AI
    Year of publication:  
    2024
    Publisher:  
    CRC Press
    Author:  
    Hamed Taherdoost, Hameedur Rahman, Inam Ullah Khan, Mariya Ouaissa, Mitra Madanchian, Salma El Hajjami
    Required:  
    No
    Oggetto:

    1. "Business Model Generation: A Handbook for Visionaries, Game Changers, and Challengers"
      Authors: Alexander Osterwalder & Yves Pigneur
      Why: This book introduces the Business Model Canvas, a strategic tool for developing innovative business models, and is essential for understanding how to create sustainable, scalable startups.

    2. "The Innovator’s Dilemma: When New Technologies Cause Great Firms to Fail"
      Author: Clayton M. Christensen
      Why: A classic on disruptive innovation, this book explains why even successful companies can fail in the face of new technologies and how entrepreneurs can leverage disruption to their advantage.

    3. "Design Thinking for Strategic Innovation: What They Can't Teach You at Business or Design School"
      Author: Idris Mootee
      Why: Explores design thinking methodologies essential for understanding customer needs and creating innovative solutions, complemented by the AI tools taught in the course.

    4. "Artificial Intelligence for Business: A Roadmap for Getting Started with AI"
      Author: Doug Rose
      Why: Provides practical insights into how AI can be integrated into business processes, from ideation to scaling, perfectly aligning with the course’s focus on AI in startups.

    5. The AI first Company: how to compete and win with Artificial intelligence, Ash Fontana, Penguin, May 4, 2021 

       
       
    6. "Startups and Disruptive Innovation: How Technology is Changing Business Models"
      Journal: Journal of Business Venturing
      Why: Explores the dynamics of startups in driving disruptive innovation and reshaping traditional business models.

    7. "The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Entrepreneurship: Opportunities and Challenges"
      Journal: Technological Forecasting & Social Change
      Why: Focuses on how AI tools are transforming the entrepreneurial landscape, from ideation to business model development.

    8. "Bridging the Gap Between Research and Practice: The Role of Technology Transfer Offices in University Spin-Offs"
      Journal: Research Policy
      Why: Investigates the challenges and best practices in moving research from academia to market, a key component of the course.

    9. "Design Thinking in Innovation: A Case Study on Entrepreneurial Success"
      Journal: Harvard Business Review
      Why: Provides real-world case studies illustrating how design thinking methodologies can be applied to foster entrepreneurial success.

    10. "Circular Business Models: A Review"
      Journal: Journal of Cleaner Production
      Why: Reviews different business models aligned with circular economy principles, helping students understand how sustainability can drive innovation.

    11. "AI-Driven Business Models in Startups: The New Frontier of Innovation"
      Journal: California Management Review
      Why: Explores the integration of AI into startup business models, including real-world applications and success stories.

     



    Oggetto:

    Notes

    x

    Enroll
  • Open
    Oggetto:
    • Teaching material
    • Exams and finals
    • Class schedule
    • Go to Moodle
    • Register for the course
    • Enrolled students
    • Invia email agli studenti registrati
    • Export table
    • Home
    • Print
    Last update: 24/02/2025 12:41

    Courses

    • List by year
    • Complete list
    • List of courses
    • List of modules

    Utilities

    • Teacher office hours
    • Registration for courses
    • Teaching material
    • Course archive

    Contacts

    University of Turin

    Via Verdi 8 - 10124 Torino

    P.I. 02099550010

    C.F. 80088230018

    Useful links

    • Site map
    • Accessibility
    • Legal notes
    • Privacy and Cookie Policy

    Contacts

    • Webmaster

    Follow us

    • Facebook
    • Twitter
    • Telegram
    • Instagram
    • LinkedIn
    • Youtube
    Campusnet Unito
    Location: https://inno-ce.campusnet.unito.it/robots.html
    Inizio pagina
    Non cliccare qui!