Exploratory Studies on the use of Experiential Learning in Entrepreneurship Education.

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to examine the role of experiential learning in

Higher Education, specifically entrepreneurship education. The paper

proposes that experiential learning is best facilitated as a result of the

learner’s participation in practical events, which supports the creation of

experiences and their subsequent reflection on these experiences. Current

approaches to teaching entrepreneurship within Higher Education are

analyzed, as is the role experiential learning has to play. Findings suggest that

by providing suitable experiential learning opportunities, educators can

develop entrepreneurial capabilities in the learners and promote an

entrepreneurial ecosystem. However, it is also important from the onset, that

students gain an understanding about entrepreneurship itself and the skills

that are required to become more entrepreneurial. A case study of an existing

real-world entrepreneurial teaching environment is provided. The educators in

IADT have already spent more than 10 years focusing on embedding

experience into their entrepreneurial ecosystem. Therefore, as a result of

research into the role of experiential learning in entrepreneurship education,

this paper allows reflection on these experiences and provides an opportunity

for their (re)-evaluation and future enrichment in the area of experiential

learning.