Innovation: the World's Greatest from FutureLearn

Most FutureLearn courses run multiple times. Every run of a course has a set start date but you can join it and work through it after it starts. Find out more This course is part of the Going to University collection which has been specifically designed for students at schools and colleges. They provide a taster of undergraduate study at the University of Leeds and help students to decide which subject to study at university. Completion of the courses will also enhance students’ university applications. The courses can also be used as a teachers’ classroom enrichment resource. Courses in this collection are also great for people that want an introduction in the specific subjects discussed in each course.

Topics Covered

What is innovation? Interpretation in business and within a wider context
Determining types of innovation: products, processes, services
Levels of innovation: incremental, radical, disruptive
Innovation in action: the challenges of an independent, serial innovator
The solar fridge: finding innovative solutions to challenges in Africa

Reviews summary

Introduction to innovation concepts

According to learners, this course provides a positive and well-structured introduction to the concept of innovation. Students found the course content to be clear and easy to understand, particularly appreciating the explanations of different types and levels of innovation. The inclusion of real-world examples, such as the case study on the solar fridge, was frequently highlighted as engaging and insightful. While many felt it was excellent for beginners or those exploring the topic for the first time, some noted that it might be too basic for individuals already familiar with innovation frameworks, suggesting it serves primarily as a foundational overview rather than an in-depth exploration.

Content is well-organized and flows logically.

"The weekly structure made it easy to follow the progression of ideas."

"Content was logically organized, building from definitions to examples smoothly."

"I appreciated how the course was broken down into manageable sections."

"The structure of the course helped reinforce the concepts learned."

Ideal for newcomers or students.

"As someone completely new to innovation, this course was perfect for getting a handle on the basics."

"I'd recommend this to any student considering studying business or innovation at university."

"The pacing and depth are just right for a foundational understanding."

"It's a gentle introduction, suitable for those who have no prior background in the subject."

Real-world examples bring theory to life.

"The case study on the solar fridge was fascinating and really helped illustrate the concepts taught."

"I really enjoyed seeing how innovation plays out in real-world scenarios, the examples were well-chosen."

"Learning about actual innovators and their challenges made the material much more relatable."

"The practical examples provided a much-needed link between the theoretical framework and application."

Provides a solid, easy-to-grasp introduction.

"This course is a great introduction to the topic of innovation. Concepts were explained clearly."

"I found the content very accessible, especially the distinction between incremental and disruptive innovation."

"The course does a good job breaking down complex ideas into simple, understandable segments for newcomers."

"Perfect if you're just starting out and need to understand the basics without getting bogged down."

May lack depth for those with prior knowledge.

"While well-presented, the content didn't offer much new for someone already familiar with innovation models."

"Felt a bit too introductory; I was hoping for more advanced concepts or practical tools."

"If you've read a book or two on innovation, you might find this course covers ground you already know."

"It serves its purpose as a taster, but doesn't delve deep enough for professional application."

Career center

Learners who complete Innovation: the World's Greatest will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Innovation

the World's Greatest

Topics Covered

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Reviews summary

Introduction to innovation concepts

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