Social Capital and Co-Creation

Social capital constitutes a series of networks and relationships, among people and enterprises, that promote collaboration efforts based on shared values, norms and understandings. Local actors such as firms, entrepreneurs, state agencies and community groups drive innovation by networking and co-ordinating activities. These actor networks often take the form of non-formal institutional interactions and play a crucial role in modernising regional economies by utilising existing skills and transposing them to new activities through co-ordinated efforts.    

This module aims to develop learners’ knowledge of various types of engagement activities, and the value of these social interactions, in driving innovation, new business creation and scale up.    

1. Apply fundamental social capital theories to the networking process at institutional and societal level.    

2. Critically discuss the role of consumption in social reproduction 

3. Explain the importance of information exchange and experimentation in new knowledge creation  

4. Critically assess the potential of the Irish diaspora in developing long term global partnership arrangements with Irish based entrepreneurs  

5. Critically evaluate the role of social interactions in creating new businesses and innovations