Convergence between 21st Century Skills and Entrepreneurship Education in Higher Education Institutes

Abstract

The aim of this study is to explore the extent to which 21^st century skills assume “a priori” as an integral part of entrepreneurship education with the intent of producing graduates who are not just primarily driven to start new ventures but also empowered and enabled to create entrepreneurial impact within organizations. In elucidating this argument the author undertook social constructionist approach, in order to develop an empirical understanding of the role of entrepreneurship education in developing 21^st century skills from the perspective and experiences of undergraduate students majoring in Innovation & Entrepreneurship undergraduate program. Findings of this study suggest that teaching detailed and nuanced industry knowledge is arguably beyond the scope of entrepreneurship education systems, but to an extent, it is of paramount importance that students are exposed to the organic industry knowledge through interaction and experiential experiences. Within such interaction, the development of convergent 21^st century skills such as social relationships, leadership, creativity and critical thinking further nurture entrepreneurial intents among students. In so doing, this study provides avenues for further development of entrepreneurship education, particularly the integration of 21^st century skills.