Self-directed experiential learning to meet ever-changing entrepreneurship demands

Morris, T.H ORCID: 0000-0002-0100-6434 and König, P.D (2021) 'Self-directed experiential learning to meet ever-changing entrepreneurship demands.' Education + Training, 63 (1). pp. 23-49.

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Official URL: https://doi.org/10.1108/ET-09-2019-0209

Abstract

Purpose:- Policy makers have called for more entrepreneurship throughout societies as a response to the digital transformation. This paper argues that the rapidly changing conditions of the digital age indeed mark a change in the bases of entrepreneurship. Specifically, as adaptivity becomes key, a learning capacity and general ability to adapt becomes a critical factor in entrepreneurial activity. The paper identifies self-directed learning as a fundamental competence in this regard and examines its role for entrepreneurship and entrepreneurial competence. Design/methodology/approach:- The paper develops a theoretical framework for the role of self-directed learning in entrepreneurship through a process of systematic review of previous studies that have linked self-directed learning to entrepreneurship. Findings:- The formulated theoretical framework shows how self-directed learning competence combines with experiential learning in supporting the kind of adaptivity needed for entrepreneurial competence, especially under more rapidly changing conditions. Self-directed learning competence also gains wider importance through enabling individuals to meet the demands of organizational changes in our highly volatile world. Practical implications:- Self-directed learning competence prepares individuals for entrepreneurship and resilience in face of rapid changes as well as for being more entrepreneurial in the conduct of their lives more generally. Fostering self-directed learning competence can thus be regarded as an important objective of entrepreneurship education. Originality/value:- The described Self-directed Experiential Learning Cycle offers a novel perspective that clarifies how both self-directed and experiential learning competences are integral for understanding the basis of adaptiveness in entrepreneurial activity.

Item Type: Article
Note:

This article was first published online and then included in an issue on 30 December 2020 with the issue being cited as 2021 by the publisher.

Keywords: self-directed learning (SDL), Kolb’s Experiential Learning Cycle, adaptivity, meta-competence, entrepreneurial orientation, digital age
Divisions: School of Education
Date Deposited: 23 Sep 2020 10:41
Last Modified: 30 Nov 2023 20:03
ISSN: 0040-0912
URI / Page ID: https://researchspace.bathspa.ac.uk/id/eprint/13514
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