Entrepreneurship education: An exploratory study applied on primary stage international schools in Egypt
Author(s)
Ola Abo-Shabana , Passent Tantawi , Mohamed A Ragheb
Publication date 2018/7/1
Journal The Business & Management Review
Abstract
The focus of this research is in the area of Entrepreneurship Education (EE). Egypt took the
54th and last rank on EE at school stage dimension in the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM)
2017 report. This dimension appeared to be the weakest of all entrepreneurship ecosystem dimensions.
Therefore, there is a dire need to investigate deeply EE. This exploratory study aims to explore the
perception and support of school leaders regarding EE at the primary stage. The research employs a
qualitative approach. A semi-structured interview was conducted with school principals and heads of
primary stage in international schools located in Cairo and Alexandria. These two governorates
represent the majority of international schools in Egypt. The content analysis and findings reveal among other things the novelty of the term EE and its association with 21st century skills. This research sheds light on the ambiguity of EE curriculum and challenges facing implementation. Teachers engage with students to work on some projects and do community service, however, they lack subject knowledge and pedagogy. Hence, continuous professional development in EE is required to qualify the teachers to deliver it effectively and demonstrate good practices. Practical importance of this research is manifested in the findings and recommendations provided for practitioners, policy makers, teacher educators, school leaders and parents with regards to embracing and enhancing EE as a key competency for lifelong learning. Theoretical importance resides in adding to the literature and filling the gap regarding EE at school level in developing countries. Limitations of this research result from the convenient sample of principals and heads of primary stage in international schools only. Further studies are needed on private national schools. Moreover, there is a need for a longitudinal study for a deeper understanding of EE practices and improvement.
