Constructivist Experiential Entrepreneurship Education in China

What is it about?

This paper explores the challenges that Chinese students face when undertaking a constructivist experience-based entrepreneurship course focused on process rather than content. In groups students were tasked with developing projects which would add value to the university’s international community. The project brief was left open to encourage the students to engage in opportunity recognition, and to allow the student groups to construct their own projects based on their skills and interests, in line with constructivist learning principles. Teaching sessions imparted knowledge relating to concepts which underpinned the steps the groups needed to take in the value creation process. Data was collected from students’ reflections and student interviews.

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Why is it important?

The research identified four key themes where students had challenges in the constructivist learning process. These were a lack of familiarity with the constructivist learning process; group work and group dynamics; the linkage of taught content to practical activities; and the reflective process of learning in constructivist education. The paper puts forward suggested remedies as to how these challenges can be minimized in the context researched, in order to support effective learning. These include explanation and reinforcement of the process and the benefits, more guidance (scaffolding) and greater structure in the learning process. The application of smaller group sizes could encourage participation, more accountability and a fairer division of labour. With effective scaffolding and the development and embedding of new rituals, students can become more comfortable with the process enabling them to participate and contribute more freely, which will maximise the learning benefits.

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