Work

Integrating work placements into entrepreneurial education: A student perspective

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Background: Effective teaching methods are essential for equipping students with entrepreneurial skills. While higher education institutions and educators aim to foster innovative entrepreneurs, the effectiveness of current teaching methods and co-curricular activities in achieving this remains uncertain. Aim: This study investigates students’ perspectives on incorporating work placements into entrepreneurial education (EE). It also explores their views on the effectiveness of teaching methods and co-curricular activities within this context. Setting: The research focusses on higher education students enrolled in programmes with an entrepreneurial component. Methods: A structured questionnaire was administered to 105 higher education students to evaluate their perspectives on work placements, teaching methods and co-curricular activities in EE. Data were analysed using SPSS, which included demographic statistics and statistical analyses comprising one-sample t-tests and paired-sample tests. Results: Students showed a preference for innovative teaching methods over traditional approaches. They highly valued job shadowing, considering it effective as both a teaching method and a co-curricular activity. However, students expressed a preference for work placements to be included as co-curricular activities rather than formal teaching methods. Conclusion: The findings underscore the importance of integrating practical and experiential learning methods to align with student preferences and enhance the quality of EE. Contribution: This study offers actionable insights into student preferences, advocating for a shift towards experiential learning. By aligning teaching strategies with these preferences, higher education institutions can create more impactful EE environments.

Source: The Southern African Journal of Entrepreneurship and Small Business Management

DOI: 10.4102/sajesbm.v17i1.1021

Authors: Chanté Botha, Daniella Teles Amaral

Institution: The Independent Institute of Education

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: $834