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Addressing 21st Century Competencies Challenges Through Project-Based Entrepreneurial Learning: A Systemic Approach

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Today’s globalized economic system and the growing competition for human talent worldwide will test university graduates’ competencies to perform jobs that do not yet exist. Positioned as a catalyst for project-based entrepreneurial learning, Business Plan Competitions (BPCs) serve as a valuable learning experience that effectively prepares students for the interrelated systems of the 21st century, which are complementary and contradictory. The research objective was to evaluate key factors that enhance BPC participants’ competency utilization and overall success by exploring winners and non-winners’ cognitive abilities, personal traits, and occupational interests. Statistically significant results were found for Agreeableness, Conscientiousness, Emotional stability, and General learning ability, with higher averages observed among winners. Additionally, alongside General learning ability, Social interest emerged as predictors of performance in the BPC. Our study advances knowledge in entrepreneurial education research by applying systems thinking to foster its efficacy, with a competency development focus. The results can practically guide educators and policymakers in designing and implementing improved project-based entrepreneurial education programs.

Source: Systems

DOI: 10.3390/systems13030178

Authors: Elena-Aurelia Botezat, Anca-Otilia Dodescu, Adriana-Florina Borza, Ioana-Crina Pop-Cohuţ

Institution: University of Oradea

Language: English

Topic: Entrepreneurship Studies and Influences

Subfield: Management of Technology and Innovation

Field: Business, Management and Accounting

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Quality education, Decent work and economic growth

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,896