The JTS iLAB Non-degree Certificate in Business Administration is a dynamic, hands-on program designed for individuals seeking to achieve their business dreams, whether starting a new venture, transitioning to a second career, or enhancing their professional skills. This 12-week hybrid program combines online learning with face-to-face workshops, offering a flexible and engaging experience tailored to the needs of older adults, retirees, and career changers.

Through a carefully developed curriculum, participants will gain a solid foundation in business fundamentals, including finance, marketing, leadership, innovation, entrepreneurship, and strategic planning, while exploring the transformative role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in modern business. From using AI tools for productivity and decision-making to developing innovative business strategies, this program equips participants with the skills and confidence to thrive in today’s competitive landscape.

Key features of the program include:

•   Case studies.
•   AI integration for modern business skills.
•   Guest lectures from industry experts.
•   Final project: Develop and pitch a business plan.

 Course Aims

The JTS iLAB Non-degree Certificate in Business Administration aims to:

1. Provide participants with a comprehensive foundation in essential business concepts, including finance, marketing, leadership, and strategic planning.
2. Equip participants with practical skills and tools, including AI applications, to solve real-world business challenges and enhance productivity.
3. Enhance an entrepreneurial mindset, empowering participants to identify opportunities, think innovatively, and pursue their business dreams with confidence.
4. Prepare participants for professional success by developing their communication, leadership, and decision-making abilities in diverse business contexts.
5. Offer a flexible and accessible learning experience that caters to the unique needs of older adults, retirees, and career changers.

 LEARNING OUTCOMES (LOs)

By the end of the program, participants will be able to:

1. Business Fundamentals

•   Demonstrate a solid understanding of key business principles, including organizational structures, financial statements, and economic factors influencing business operations.

2. AI Integration

•   Apply AI tools (e.g., ChatGPT, Canva) to enhance productivity, decision-making, and innovation in business contexts.

3. Financial Literacy

•   Analyze financial statements, create budgets, and use financial analysis techniques to make informed business decisions.

4. Marketing Skills

•   Develop and execute comprehensive marketing strategies, incorporating market research, Digital marketing, branding, and promotional activities to reach target audiences.

5. Entrepreneurship & Innovation

•   Identify and evaluate business opportunities using frameworks like the business model canvas and lean startup methodology.
•   Enhance creativity and implement innovative solutions in business planning and operations.

6. Communication & Leadership

•   Communicate effectively in various business contexts, including written communication, presentations, and interpersonal interactions.
•   Demonstrate leadership and teamwork skills to manage and inspire others.

7. Strategic Planning

•   Develop a business plan that incorporates strategic planning, innovation, and ethical considerations.
•   Use tools like SWOT analysis to make informed strategic decisions.

8. Real-World Application

•   Apply learned skills and knowledge to real-world scenarios through case studies, workshops, and a final business plan project.

INSTRUCTIONAL METHODS AND LEARNING ACTIVITIES

This course is delivered through a balance blend of face – face and online technology. Course activities include live business cases and professional guest industry facilitation.

Target Audience: Older adults, retirees, career changers, and all interested persons

Business Fundamentals & AI Basics

Objective: Build a strong foundation in business concepts and introduce AI’s role in modern business.

• Introduction to Business Concepts
• AI in Business
• Basics of Business Mathematics
• Communication Skills Development
• Economics and Business Relevance
• AI for Productivity

Organizational Behavior & Management

Objective: Understand organizational dynamics and how AI can enhance leadership and teamwork.

• Principles of Management
• AI in Leadership
• Organizational Structures & Cultures
• Team Dynamics & Conflict Resolution
• AI-Powered Collaboration Tools
• Leadership Styles & Their Impact

Financial Basics & AI in Finance – Rising trends

Objective: Gain financial literacy and learn how AI can improve financial management.

• Introduction to Accounting Principles
• Rising trends of AI in Financial Management
• Understanding Financial Statements
• Budgeting & Financial Planning
• Financial Analysis Techniques

Marketing Essentials, Entrepreneurship, Innovation & Final Project

Objective: Learn marketing fundamentals, develop an entrepreneurial mindset, explore innovation, and create a business plan.

• Fundamentals of Marketing
• AI in Marketing
• Characteristics of Successful Entrepreneurs
• Innovation and Strategy in Business
• Business Model Canvas & Innovation
• Final Project: Business Plan Development
• Final Project: Financial Projections
• Final Project: Pitch Preparation
• Final Project: Pitch Presentations
• Graduation & Networking Event

 DELIVERY METHOD:

• Combination of face-face, online sessions, and practical exercises
• Guest lecturer from relevant industry
• Case studies
• Regular assessments and feedback sessions 

ASSESSMENT STRATEGY, GRADING, AND FEEDBACK

Assessment Strategy

Our assessment strategy is designed to be formative (ongoing feedback) and summative (final evaluation), ensuring participants can track their progress and apply their learning effectively.

1. Formative Assessments

This will be conducted every 2 weeks (aligned with module completion). Assessments will include the following:

• Quizzes: Short quizzes to test understanding of key concepts.
• Case Study Analysis: Participants analyze real-world business scenarios and present solutions.
• Workshop Assignments: Hands-on tasks using AI tools (e.g., developing a marketing campaign).
• Peer Reviews: Participants review and provide feedback on each other’s work.
•   Purpose: Provide ongoing feedback, identify strengths and areas for improvement, and encourage active participation.

2. Summative Assessment

This will consists of the final project which is to develop and pitch a simple business plan.

Components:

• Executive summary.
• Market analysis.
• Financial projections.
• Marketing strategy.
• Innovation and risk management plan.

Participants will pitch their business plan. This is to ensure proper integration of all learning outcomes in a practical, real-world context.

Grading Criteria

Grading is based on the alignment of participants’ work with the Learning Outcomes and the quality of their submissions.

Feedback Strategy

Feedback is a critical component of our program, ensuring participants understand their progress and areas for improvement.

1. Formative Feedback: After each formative assessment (every 2 weeks). Formats include written feedback (highlighting strengths and areas for improvement) and suggestions for further reading or practice. The purpose is to help participants refine their skills and stay on track.

2. Summative Feedback: This is done after the final project presentation. Formats may include any of the following.

·  Detailed written feedback on the business plan and pitch.

·  Verbal feedback from the panel during the presentation.

·  Certificate of completion with a performance summary

The purpose is to provide a comprehensive evaluation of the participant’s overall performance and readiness for real-world application.