Study Guide

Learning outcomes

Student is able to
- integrate sustainable development perspectives into the development of new products and services
- analyze markets and identify potential commercialization opportunities for sustainable development products and services
- apply principles of sustainable development across various industries and business models

Implementation and methods of teaching

The course is delivered as blended learning, combining face-to-face teaching, independent study, and applied assignments. Teaching methods include lectures, case studies, expert guest lectures, and the use of digital tools (e.g., video presentations, infographics). Learning is interactive and practice-oriented, with students applying their knowledge to practical development tasks.

Timing and attendance

The course is scheduled for the autumn semester 10 th September - 15 th October. It includes three face-to-face sessions (3 x 3 hours), and attendance is highly recommended. A significant amount of independent study is required, and students should allocate sufficient time for applied assignments.

Learning material and recommended literature

- Bocken, N., Short, S., Rana, P., & Evans, S. (2014). "A literature and practice review to develop sustainable business model archetypes."
- Geissdoerfer, M., Vladimirova, D., & Evans, S. (2018). "Sustainable business model innovation: A review."

Relevant articles and research papers provided during the course in Moodle.

Alternative completion methods

The course is completed through individual assignments, but students may choose the presentation format for some tasks (e.g., written report vs. video presentation).

Working life cooperation

The course incorporates real-life business cases and current sustainability innovations from various industries. Expert guest lecture and company case studies support a work-life-oriented learning approach.

Exam retakes

Students may retake a failed assignment according to the instructions of the responsible lecturer. Retake assignments will be determined on a case-by-case basis.

Learning environment

The course is conducted in Moodle, and some assignments require the use of digital tools (e.g., video, infographic creation).

Student time use and work load

Face-to-face teaching (3x3 h)
Preparation for lectures
Assignment 1 (company analysis and video)
Assignment 2 (marketing plan + infographics)
Assignment 3 (final project + presentation)
Other independent work
Total: 135 h

Contents

The course covers sustainability innovation processes, market analysis, commercialization, and applications across different industries.

Additional information for students: previous knowledge etc.

No previous knowledge needed.

Assessment criteria

Assignment 1 (video analysis) – 20%
Assignment 2 (marketing plan + infographic) – 30%
Assignment 3 (final project + presentation) – 50%

Assessment scale

1-5

Failed (0)

Assignments are incomplete or do not meet the given requirements.
No demonstrated understanding of sustainability innovations or business applications.
Insufficient use of sources, and the analysis is weak.
Presentations (video/poster) are of poor quality or incomplete.

Assessment criteria: level 1 (assessment scale 1–5)

Company Analysis and Video Presentation:
Basic understanding of the company's sustainability innovation, but the analysis is superficial.
Video presentation is unstructured or visually weak.
Minimal use of sources.

Marketing Plan and Infographic:
Basic marketing analysis is present, but the commercialization strategy is insufficient.
Infographic is unclear and does not effectively support the plan.

Final Project and Presentation:
Innovation proposal is weak or vague.
Written report lacks depth and proper analysis.
Presentation is unstructured and lacks effective visualization.

Assessment criteria: level 3 (assessment scale 1–5)

Company Analysis and Video Presentation:
Good understanding of the company's sustainability innovation.
Analysis demonstrates a basic level of critical thinking.
Video presentation is clear and well-structured but could be visually improved.

Marketing Plan and Infographic:
Market analysis is comprehensive, but the commercialization strategy needs more depth.
Infographic is clear and supports the analysis but could be visually stronger.

Final Project and Presentation:
Innovation proposal is realistic and well-reasoned.
Written report demonstrates good subject knowledge and references relevant sources.
Presentation is coherent and effectively visualizes key aspects of the innovation.

Assessment criteria: level 5 (assessment scale 1–5)

Company Analysis and Video Presentation:
Deep and critical analysis of the company's sustainability innovation.
Demonstrates excellent understanding of sustainable business models.
Video presentation is well-produced, visually high-quality, and impactful.

Marketing Plan and Infographic:
Market analysis and commercialization strategy are excellently justified.
Infographic is visually engaging and highly informative.

Final Project and Presentation:
Innovation proposal is creative, scalable, and well-founded.
Written report is academically strong, well-referenced, and insightful.
Presentation is convincing, well-structured, and visually compelling.