Creative management in TAMK Proacademy

Abstract

PurposeThis paper aims to focus on the management of creative learning process in Proacademy, an entrepreneurship education unit of Tampere University of Applied Sciences (TAMK) where all coaching, learning and business development activities are focused on facilitating the entrepreneurial path, which consists of five core value‐activities of trust, courage, actions, learning and success.Design/methodology/approachTAMK Proacademy implements a unique approach to continuous development of a learning community, based on team learning and self‐managed development of relevant knowledge and skills. The paper describes this process, part of its theoretical basis and major outcomes.FindingsThe shared decision making in Proacademy allows for student‐entrepreneurs to take an active and responsible role in the management of the study programme and leaves enough room for creativity and innovation in practice. Capability of self‐leadership of teams and individuals is enabled by a shared vision and values, and the shared domain of entrepreneurship as the focus of learning activities.Originality/valueThis paper demonstrates the key factors found to be most important in managing a creative organization and it will be of value for anyone investigating learning organizations. It presents an example on how an organization that supports active co‐operation between the university staff and the students can be structured.